Genuine 1987 Chevrolet El Camino Axle Shaft

1987 Chevrolet El Camino Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: What is the usual reason for axle shaft removal on this type of axle on 1987 Chevrolet El Camino?

  A: The usual reason for axleshaft removal on this type of axle is excessive shaft end play. To check this, remove the road wheel and brake drum and attach a dial gauge to the axleshaft end flange. If the shaft can be moved in and out by hand, the end play should not exceed 0.022 inches. If it does, the shaft bearing is likely worn and the following operations should be carried out. First, unscrew and remove the bolts attaching the axleshaft retainer plate to the brake backing plate. Then, attach a slide hammer to the road wheel mounting studs and withdraw the axleshaft, avoiding pulling it by hand from the housing. As the axleshaft is removed, the bearing may separate into three parts, but this does not mean it is unserviceable. If this happens, remove the two sections left behind from the axle tube. With the axleshaft removed, hold it in a vise so that the bearing retainer ring rests on the jaws' edges. Use a hammer and sharp chisel to nick the retainer in two places, spreading it to slide off the shaft without damaging it. Do not attempt to cut the retainer with a torch as it will ruin the shaft's temper. Use a press or extractor to withdraw the bearing from the axleshaft and remove and discard the oil seal. When installing the new bearing, ensure the retainer plate and seal are installed to the shaft first, pressing the bearing and retaining ring tightly against it. Before installing the axleshaft assembly, apply wheel bearing grease to the bearing end and races in the axle housing tube, and rear axle oil to the axleshaft splines. Hold the axleshaft horizontally and insert it into the axle housing, feeling when the shaft splines engage with those in the differential side gears, and then push the shaft fully into position using a soft-faced hammer on the end flange if necessary. Finally, bolt the retainer plate to the brake backplate, install the brake drum and wheel, and lower the vehicle to the ground.