I am about to replace the driver's side front outer axle bearing on a 98 Tahoe 4x4. I noticed that there is no axle tube on that side. Could someone tell me if I have to crack the differential open to get to the outer bearing? I was not sure how the axle stayed in the differential. I have worked on plenty of front differentials on the older Chevys, but have yet to work on this style. The older ones had c-clips or pins. If I do have to go into the differential, would it be better to remove it from the truck before disassembling it? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

I read in a Haynes manual that the drivers side front axle comes out of the differential by using a pry bar and a rubber mallet (basically hammer it out). Does that mean there is no retaining mechanism that needs to be removed before pulling the axle? I would really like to know what I am going to get into before I start disassembly. Thanks.

 

There is a ring on the end of the axle that holds it in.

 

I see the ring on the end of the axle shaft in the exploded view. Will that ring clear the axle bearing? Basically, can I replace the axle bearing without pulling the differential?

 

The ring clip will clear the bearing, you may want to use a slide hammer to remove te axle. the bearing in the diff housing is held in by a screw in adjuster. Are you sure that bearing is bad?

 

I started getting a strange vibration in the right front when decelerating. Over time, the vibration started getting worse. So, I jacked up the front and checked the hub. It was in pretty good shape (no play). I then checked where the cv joint attaches to the axle flange. There is some pretty noticeable play with the axle (it moves up and down pretty good). I figured that the bearing should keep the axle shaft pretty tight. The passenger side axle has almost no play. So, I am pretty sure that the bearing is going out. Think my assumption is correct?

As far as the screw in adjuster, I see where the 3/4 ton has one, but did not see one on the 1/2 exploded view. I guess I can pull the cv shaft, then slide hammer the axle out and see what it looks like.

 

I know for sure that the passenger side has the adjuster, I'm pretty sure the driver's side has one as well.

 

Thanks for the info Mud! I am going to tackle it next weekend (we just got 8 inches of snow and ice here, so not a real good time to work on it). I will post a reply on what I found.