Axle Shaft & Bearing: Installation

1. Replace oil seal, bearing race and axle bearing. Stake bearing lock nut into position. Apply about 2 oz. (60 g) grease to outer bearing race.
2. Remove bearing holder bolts on opposite axle shaft. Install axle shaft with new bearing into housing with a .079" (2 mm) shim between bearing holder and axle housing flange. Tighten bearing holder bolts evenly in progression.
3. Push opposite axle shaft inward until it contacts thrust block inside differential assembly. Measure clearance between bearing holder and axle housing flange. See Fig 1 . Add .012" (.3 mm) to measured clearance to determine thickness of shim to be installed. Shims are available in thicknesses of .002-.039" (.05-1.0 mm). To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Tighten bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.

Fig 1: Determining Axle Housing Shim Thickness (2WD)

Courtesy of ISUZU MOTOR CO.

Install NEW oil seal into bearing holder and install bearing holder onto shaft. Press new axle bearing onto axle shaft. Heat new inner retainer to 302°F (150°C). Install inner retainer onto axle shaft with heavy chamfer on inner face toward bearing side. Use press to seat axle shaft into bearing holder until snap ring can be installed.

Fig 1: Exploded View Of Rear Axle Shaft (4WD)

Courtesy of ISUZU MOTOR CO.