QuestionVehicle: 1992 Chevrolet Blazer S10 4.3L engine
2 wheel drive, 2 door, automatic, no a/c, no posi-trac
160,000 km.
Leaking axle seals (probably as a result of using excessive heat around
brake backing plate in attempt to remove seized fasteners on same) now
requires that I open up the differential cover to gain access to, and allow
removal of axles, for replacement of damaged seals. After proper clean-
up, new seals and likely replacement of brake shoes this job should be
fairly straight forward, almost...
I've been informed by a parts supplier (and former mechanic) that the
pinion locking bolt sometimes has a tendency to snap off during
removal. When I purchased this vehicle about 9 years ago, the axles
seals were leaking slightly and were replaced at that time. I was at the
shop when this job was being done and there were no difficulties
removing or replacing the lock bolt. Are there concerns about this
procedure, and if it does snap, what then?
I do have a torque wrench and intend to torque to the spec (20 ft/lbs.) in
my manual. My repair manual also recommends replacing the lock bolt
with a new one. Your advice is much appreciated!
Thank you.
Rick M.
AnswerRick,
Are you removing the pinion gear in the rear end or are you refering to the lock bolt that holds the pin in the spider gear carrier? There is a small bolt you have to take out in order to pull the pin out of the carrier to get to the "c" clips on the axles but other than that unless its leaking removing the pinion gear it totally unecessary. Lots of cars go lifetimes and never get the pinion gear replaced. Now if any bolt breaks in the rear end the 1st thing to try would be an easy out, or a screw extractor to try to back it out. If this is unsuccessful the other option is to drill it out all together, wich I hope noone ever has to do... Hopefully this helps and any other questions just shoot them my way
Matt
