axle bearing leak ?
 

I have a Ford 9" in my wagon. it has a small lube leak on the pass. side. none on the drive side. originally this housing had a seal in the housing, just inboard from the bearing. I have Strange 1.56 [or so] axles in it. I have not pulled the axle yet. should I be using a seal? if so how does the bearing get lube? [there is the possibility the the bearing seal has failed I know.]
if I have to buy a new bearing, what brand is best?
Thanks Rod in AZ

Re: axle bearing leak ?
 

Is this the style of axle bearing that uses an O ring around the OD of the bearing, where it goes into the axle tube? If so, I always put a smear of RTV sealer around the O ring, had no leaks. Since the axle bearings are sealed, there is no need for gear oil to get into the bearings. Most 9" car axle bearings are sealed ball bearing style, some of the F 100/150 PU truck 9"s have tapered roller bearings, which do rely on gear oil lubrication, those have axle seals on the outside of the bearings. Not normally used in drag race applications.

Re: axle bearing leak ?
 

A friend of mine bought a new ford truck and it leaked oil out by the backing plate. Ford replaced the seal under warranty, still leaked. Turned out the flange weld was all slag on the bottom of the housing.

Re: axle bearing leak ?
 

Might want to make sure the vent for the housing is working. The mesh type vents can plug up.

Re: axle bearing leak ?
 

I had problems getting a replacement O ring in the exact same size. So after choosing the closest one we applied "The Right Stuff" from Permatex and all was good. (Strange axles in an OE housing with disc brake setup.)

Re: axle bearing leak ?
 

An mechanic from the old days told me to use wheel bearing grease around the o/ring and bearing also put the grease on the flange and c/clip eliminator gasket tighten it up and it will never leak unless the vent is clogged . So far I never had another leak !

Re: axle bearing leak ?
 

Funny how the mind forgets and then is caused to bring back info. I do remember using heavy old style bearing grease, [like for front wheel bearings]
I did check the vent [pipe type with a loose cap]. it is OK.
in this small town, I will bet 'O' rings will be next to impossible to find, should I need one.
thanks all for the replys.
Rod in AZ