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I just bought a W350 (1988) last night and it needs some front axle work. When I look under the hood for the data sticker, it is gone, so now I am up to taking my best guesses. I assumed that because it is a W350 (single rear wheels) that it would have a Dana 60 front axle, same as my 86 W250 with Sno Fighter pkg. But to know for sure is probably another story. What are the things to look for to make a true identification?
In the darkness (flashlights), my son read the door sticker and said the front axle is listed as 4500 lb capacity. My 66 YO eyes could not read that sticker in the low light levels.
Next up is the problem I need to solve. The right side front axle shaft (short shaft) is sloppy loose. It will move very easily into the axle housing and back into the hub, and meanwhile it will move up and down and forward and back more than 1/8" and maybe a 1/4". There is gear oil coming out of the axle housing (not dripping, but that part of the truck won't rust for many years). Where is the axle shaft seal located? And can it be serviced without opening the pumpkin? This truck has been used as a farm truck for the last 6 years and is fairly stock, showing no signs of abuse or being a "mudder". I doubt the front axle has been submerged, so water contamination is not likely. The PO even kept it in his barn all the time and rarely drove it in the winter (very little rust).
I welcome your advice. Thank You!
Paul in MN
In the darkness (flashlights), my son read the door sticker and said the front axle is listed as 4500 lb capacity. My 66 YO eyes could not read that sticker in the low light levels.
Next up is the problem I need to solve. The right side front axle shaft (short shaft) is sloppy loose. It will move very easily into the axle housing and back into the hub, and meanwhile it will move up and down and forward and back more than 1/8" and maybe a 1/4". There is gear oil coming out of the axle housing (not dripping, but that part of the truck won't rust for many years). Where is the axle shaft seal located? And can it be serviced without opening the pumpkin? This truck has been used as a farm truck for the last 6 years and is fairly stock, showing no signs of abuse or being a "mudder". I doubt the front axle has been submerged, so water contamination is not likely. The PO even kept it in his barn all the time and rarely drove it in the winter (very little rust).
I welcome your advice. Thank You!
Paul in MN
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