10-02-2023, 06:03 PM
So when I inspected #490 when I picked it up I noticed that the differential was wet and it appeared to be coming from the pinion. So while I had the wheels off to get the tires put on, I did some inspection of the driveline components and greasing of course too while I was under there.
I was hoping the pinion seal leak was just from sitting and getting dried out, but I don't think I have that good of luck.
So while I had the bus properly supported I released the parking brakes and then spun one of the drive hubs and did not like what I heard. To me it seems to have quite a bit of lash in the rear diff gears. I was discussing this issue with my parts buddy and he said he would suspect the pinion bearing is worn, which would also explain the pinion seal leak. So at some point I am going to be pulling the carrier and sending it off for a rebuild.
I did do some cursory searches on differentials on here but did not see a whole lot come up in the searches of others having issues.
Any one else had to have their diff fixed, just curious if its a common problem or something that just happened on mine. There is always a possibility with the diff lock that someone forgot and left it on, that would be hard on the pinion. I have not even tried turning the diff lock on, does it give an audible warning when its on? I guess if it does have an audible warning then my theory it was left on is a little more far fetched.
In my searching I did find parts and maintenance manuals for the Rockwell 160 axles:
I was hoping the pinion seal leak was just from sitting and getting dried out, but I don't think I have that good of luck.
So while I had the bus properly supported I released the parking brakes and then spun one of the drive hubs and did not like what I heard. To me it seems to have quite a bit of lash in the rear diff gears. I was discussing this issue with my parts buddy and he said he would suspect the pinion bearing is worn, which would also explain the pinion seal leak. So at some point I am going to be pulling the carrier and sending it off for a rebuild.
I did do some cursory searches on differentials on here but did not see a whole lot come up in the searches of others having issues.
Any one else had to have their diff fixed, just curious if its a common problem or something that just happened on mine. There is always a possibility with the diff lock that someone forgot and left it on, that would be hard on the pinion. I have not even tried turning the diff lock on, does it give an audible warning when its on? I guess if it does have an audible warning then my theory it was left on is a little more far fetched.
In my searching I did find parts and maintenance manuals for the Rockwell 160 axles:
Jeff LoGiudice
Temple Terrace, Fl
1984 Bluebird Wanderlodge PT40
1998 Newell 2000 #490
1986 MCI/TMC 102A3 (sold)