Manufacturer specifications apply. This page explains concepts only. Torque values, clearances, preload, backlash ranges and procedures vary by axle model and must come from the vehicle or component manufacturer's service information. This directory does not publish repair specifications.
What this service covers
Rear axle shafts carry torque from the differential side gears to the rear wheels. On many cars and light pickups the axle is semi-floating: the shaft also supports the vehicle's weight through a bearing near the wheel.
Shafts are replaced when they are bent, broken, or worn where the bearing or seal rides, or when splines are damaged.
Common signs
- Rumbling or growling from one rear corner that changes with speed or load
- Gear oil on the inside of the rear wheel or brake parts
- Wheel wobble or a clunk from a rear wheel
- A shaft that slides outward, which is an immediate safety concern
What the work usually involves
- Determine retention type (C-clip or bearing-retained) before disassembly
- Inspect the bearing journal, splines and housing bore
- Replace the shaft, bearing and seal as needed, using the method the design requires
- Refill or top up gear oil and road test
Steps vary by vehicle and component design. Values and procedures come from the manufacturer's service information.
Vehicles this applies to
Rear-wheel-drive cars, SUVs, half-ton and many three-quarter-ton pickups, and vans.
Key terms
Axle shaft spline
The machined teeth on the end of an axle shaft that engage the differential side gear (and, on full-floating axles, the hub drive flange). Spline count and diameter must match the mating part exactly; worn or twisted splines are a reason to replace the shaft.
Semi-floating axle
The axle shaft both transmits torque and supports the vehicle's weight at the wheel end through a bearing in the axle tube. Common on passenger vehicles and many half-ton pickups. How the shaft is retained (for example C-clip or bearing-retained) affects service procedures.
Wheel-end bearing
The bearings that support the hub on the axle spindle. Heavy trucks commonly use tapered roller bearings, either adjusted using a specified procedure or supplied as pre-set or unitized assemblies. Adjustment procedures come from the axle or hub manufacturer.
Choosing a shop
- Confirm the shop works on your vehicle class and, for trucks, your axle make.
- Ask what parts they install (new, remanufactured or rebuilt) and what warranty applies.
- Check the listing's verification status and date in this directory.