how bad did I screw up

[ivan7382]

I recently installed Warn manual hubs on my 94 ranger. I forgot to install the thrust washers and retlaining clips. I then drove 200 miles to the mountains and back using four wheel drive frequently in the snow. Realized my mistake when I got back and installed them. Nothing seems broken and all I can tell is that the axle could just move a little bit in and out. Do you think anything is messed up? My thoughts are that its ok because I can't think of anything it could hurt.

 

[strvger]

i think you're ok really. as long as everything is still working as it should, then just drive it.

 

[ivan7382]

I did a little research and it looks like the reason its there is to hold the stub shaft seal up against the spindle. I did notice that the area is pretty well protected and doesnt appear much road grime has gotten in there. To be on the safe side I think I may pull the rotors off and then pull the spindle off and re-pack the grease in the bearing on the stub shaft. Shouldn't be too hard just messy and I'll prob sleep better knowing I checked.

 

[Jspafford]

Yeah, Don't sweat it..Just put them together and go.

 

[Andres629]

It's more like Jspafford's tag line there... more of an "Awww Crap!" moment than anything. I did it once as well. Exact same thing. Through snow. A year later, they're still running fine... mind you I put them back together proper after I found out... aha!

 

[ivan7382]

Yea I'm kinda starting to think about just not worrying about it. There is a seal pressed into the spindle and the stub shaft would have to back out pretty far to let anything in. It was real slushy and wet yesterday driving back but I think its probably ok, I didnt go through any deep water or anything that would force water into it.