Axle Straightening Part 2 - AUSJEEPOFFROAD.COM Jeep News Australia and New Zealand

Dale · #1 09-07-2002

Some of you may remember my post on EJ regarding Axle straightening.

In summary, I sheared my tx case output shaft at easter. Once this was fixed I found a wobbly wheel and traced it down to a bent axle shaft.

I whipped the axle out and took it to The WA Diff Centre and had it straightened. Cost me $90 and is now spot on.

My only concerns are that I used the same bearing and am concerned of the effects of any brinelling that may have occured when the shaft/axle snapped/bent. I'll keep an eye on this. Also concerned about the seal failing now it has been unsettled.
Also a bit stressed about the way they straighten it. Put in lathe between centres. Machine face of wheel mount and take measurement. Mark where the shaft is bent. Stick in press and straighten cold. Have some concerns as to whether or not this will weaken the axle in any way.

Last concern is that the spline is also twisted sligthly. [img]redface.gif[/img]

Anyway, will let you know of any side effects later.

Last price I saw for a new axle was about $400USD .

[ 09 July 2002, 11:23 PM: Message edited by: Dale ]

Matt N · #2 09-07-2002

If the splines were twisted you would have noticed it upon looking at them.

Dale · #3 09-07-2002

Yes you certainly can see the twist in the spline.

I got too caught up in looking for the bend in the shaft, damaged bearing etc i neglected the other obvious bits.

When they pointed out the twist in the spline it stuck out like dogs balls. It isn't a major twist, but once you know it is there it becomes obvious.

It had no ill effects on reassembly either.

Jonesy · #4 09-07-2002

I wouldnt worry about the twist too much Ive seen alot of that before and chances are are both the spline an the slot it fits into are now a" unique " Fit. :confused:
Any how it shouldnt be a problem Ive been involed with a couple of off road racing teams and seen the twisted shafts being used for years(under heavy abuse)and not brake. ;)

Wooders · #5 09-07-2002

Twisting is also the first sign of breakage....I'd be getting a spare axle shaft now....as for $400usd - that sounds too much....
it's bit of a concern though...I mean HTF can breaking an output shaft damage the axle shaft....
Worse I'm worried that might be a problem on my rig.....Time for 60's??

dxj · #6 09-07-2002

Hi,

I was told many years ago that axles are made from induction hardened steel. This is to leave a soft and tough centre with a hardened outer shell. The idea is that the axle will not break or snap but twist under load. So I think what you have is just what axles are designed to do.... twist under stress. Old series I Land rovers were famous for 1/2 to 1 turn twist before they snapped.

Having said all that I probably would be thinking of a new axle cause I hate things breaking when a long ways from home.

Wooders · #7 09-07-2002

Dale on this thread on JU the guys are talking replacement axles from Superior...Chrommoly & rolled - apparently much stronger than stock....$350ish USD....
http://jeepsunlimited.com/forums/sho...hreadid=261037