Does rust kill an axle?

[jtaborsky]

Hello everyone,

I have a 1992 dana 35 ttb axle that I have been waiting to install in my vehicle. However, it has been sitting around for a couple years because I was deployed and because it does not have the gear ratio to match the rear of the vehicle. The axle splines are rusty. I ordered the correct ring and pinion and install kit today. Is this axle still usable? Should I sand down the rusty axle shafts? Should I just spray them with some grease? What will it take to use this axle assembly?

Thanks.
- Joe

 

[4x4junkie]

If it's just surface rust, hit it with a Scotch-Brite pad and you should be fine (sandblaster is another option if you have one).

If it's pitted though, especially on any bearing surfaces, then I'd consider finding some new parts for it.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I would try a wire wheel or a sandblaster on the splines.

 

[turbo91xlt]

Submerge it in a rust dissolver such as Evapo-Rust.

 

[bobbywalter]

i would have to see it to know for sure....but evap rust soak or electrolysis with a battery charger can work real well.


simple spline rust like mentioned will clean up with a wire wheel or brush....and some grease.

the bearing and seal surface on the other hand are issues that could be cause for concern