Rear end movement

[wadehump]

I have a 2000 4x4. While installing rear brakes last weekend noticed that the axles on both sides move about 1/4 of an inch in and out. This isn't normal im sure mechanic said needs new pinion shaft and shaft lock and c clips.

 

[rangerbum]

Maybe he means the carrier cross pin and c clips? There may also be play in the carrier bearings as well.

 

[Captain Ledd]

Play in the carrier bearing(s) would make for a VERY noisy rear end, and a short lived one at that.

There is some play in the shafts to slide in and out, it actually is normal. Characteristic of the C-clip axle. I think mine moved more along the lines of 3/16", but I only checked that on a well worn 7.5". Never bothered with any of my other ones, but they do it too.

 

[adsm08]

Eh, a 1/4 inch might still be OK.

Grab a dial indicator and see how far they are actually moving.

 

[4x4junkie]

Shouldn't be more than 1/8".

If it's more than that, it's usually due to wear of the limited slip clutches (rebuilding the Traction Lok diff w/new clutches should take care of it, in addition to restoring it's limited slip function).