C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

[Al C.]

In pulling the axle for refinishing, I observed lube seepage around the companion flange nut.
The ST-12 calls for a special tool (J-2637 or J-8614-1-2) to restrain the drive flange while removing the nut. Is there a practical alternative to these tools?
Any tips for how far one ought to go "as long as you're this far" to renew seals, check bearings, etc.?
Thanks, ...Al '58 #378 NCRS, SACC

[Bill Clupper]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

If you already have the axle out, why not just pull the drive gear assembly out and use a qualified shop to check the bearings (I'd replace on general principles) replace the seal and set the clearances. Should be good from that point for as long as you plan to drive it without risk.

[Bill Clupper]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

If you already have the axle out, why not just pull the drive gear assembly out and use a qualified shop to check the bearings (I'd replace on general principles) replace the seal and set the clearances. Should be good from that point for as long as you plan to drive it without risk.

[John M.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

Al, removing the nut is not a problem, just hit it with an impact and it come right loose. The problem is in crushing the new sleeve to get the right preload. You need to sneak up on the preload, because if you go too far you have to buy a new crush sleeve. I have used a large pipe wrench to hold the flange and had good luck. I would avoid the rear pinion bearing unless it is bad since you would have to set the pinion depth with a new bearing, but would replace the carrrier bearings and front pinion bearing since they are easy to replace and require no special tools. John

[John M.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

Al, removing the nut is not a problem, just hit it with an impact and it come right loose. The problem is in crushing the new sleeve to get the right preload. You need to sneak up on the preload, because if you go too far you have to buy a new crush sleeve. I have used a large pipe wrench to hold the flange and had good luck. I would avoid the rear pinion bearing unless it is bad since you would have to set the pinion depth with a new bearing, but would replace the carrrier bearings and front pinion bearing since they are easy to replace and require no special tools. John

[John H.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

Al -

Also note that when reassembling, you need to pack the exposed splines on the pinion and the cavity behind the pinion seal with non-hardening sealer before you install the pinion seal, or it will leak through the splines (they didn't bother to put this note in the Shop Manual or Overhaul Manual until 1969).

[John H.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

Al -

Also note that when reassembling, you need to pack the exposed splines on the pinion and the cavity behind the pinion seal with non-hardening sealer before you install the pinion seal, or it will leak through the splines (they didn't bother to put this note in the Shop Manual or Overhaul Manual until 1969).

[Al C.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

What is an example of a non-hardening sealer?
... Al '58 #378 NCRS, SACC

[Al C.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

What is an example of a non-hardening sealer?
... Al '58 #378 NCRS, SACC

[John H.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

Al -

Overhaul Manual sez "Permatex Type A or equivalent".

[John H.]

Re: C1 Rear Axle Companion Flange

Al -

Overhaul Manual sez "Permatex Type A or equivalent".