rear axle

chad lefler · 08-27-2009, 07:28 AM

I have a 96 suzuki side kick sport 1.8 liter overhead cam.

Rear axle seals are worn out. had them replaced cost me a chunk of cash. however the mechanic who repaired them did not check the axles. apparenlty the axles are worn and have already chewed up the new seals and bearings. Not going to have this guy work on it again he should have checked those axles.
Any way does any one have nay suggestins on my next move. Getting a little tired of dumping money on this thing. If I replace the axles I could have problems with the gears next. Should I look for a used axle? Rebuild this one? what is my most cost effective aproach? THe car is in good shape other wise, SO IT SEEMS. thought about giving up on it but I think I would take to much of a loss. It hs about 110,000 miles on it. However it is an automatic. tramsmission has not give me problems and I have serviced it. but.. that many miles on an auto has me worried next. Any suggestions????

the flying scotsman · 08-29-2009, 08:49 PM

How did he only replace "the seals"?

Bex · 08-30-2009, 07:00 AM

Check it out:

http://www.suzuki-forums.com/suzuki-...ighlight=codyj

chad lefler · 08-31-2009, 08:08 AM

He replaced the bearings also. But any good mechanic would check the axles for tolerance.

chad lefler · 08-31-2009, 08:11 AM

So I am better rebuilding the entire axle?

the flying scotsman · 08-31-2009, 02:45 PM

In what way are the axles 'worn'?

chad lefler · 09-01-2009, 10:37 AM

THey do not have grooves but appear to be out of tolerance. From what I undersatnd but teh mechanic I had it at has lost my trust. So I am uncertain

kick-fix · 09-01-2009, 11:39 AM

this is all in the fsm ( can send you it , just ask, and is on ActsFaqs page PDF) free to anyone.

it says, press off bearings after the locking collar is removed
then it says.
make sure there is no wear or brinelling . bluing or discoloration. or bent.
there must be no damage to any of the machined surfaces.

if you tourch off the collar and over heat the axle this causes , annealing .
this makes the suface soft and the seal just digs into it.

the steps are clear but there is craft and art to working on axles , bearings seals and gears. Best is to take the axle to a quality machine shop and ask them to put in new seals and evaluate the condition, ( experienced eye balls , not just labor)

when things go wrong.
i like this link, shows how complex an axle is and how many things can go wrong.
some things are hair pullers.
Rear Axle

actsfaqs is off line, they are moving server. shucks.

biker0051 · 09-27-2009, 08:57 AM

I had a '91 Sidekick, sold it with 158000 miles on it. I replaced the left rear axle bearing and seals at around 70000 miles. Never had any problems after that with the differential. The transmission lines are pressure hose on the '91, not steel. Check yours! If they are rubber pressure hose replace them. Cheap insurance! Mine blew out while driving around. Had to change them in a parking lot while trying not to get run over or have the vehicle bumped while in the air and me UNDER it!

kick-fix · 09-27-2009, 09:21 AM

Ack's FAQ: Your 4X4 Portal To All Things Suzuki/Geo

most of the common parts are here, axles, suspension, tranny.
new server is up now.