Front axle bearing

[f100cleveland]

If I grab by my front axle ujoint and lift the axle outer end up and let it drop down it seems to have close to a 1/8 inch play in it. Is this normal? I have no noises or grinding. Do they use a caged needle bearing like a Dana?













doe

 

[DaveBen]

No it should be tight. The bearings used on the outer spindles are 'Unit Bearings'. They consist of two bearings in one assemble, hence the name 'Unit Bearing'. AND they are not cheap. Rockauto.com has them for for $106.79.
"USA STANDARD GEAR Part # USA10035 Axle Bearing & Seal Kit
Rear; 4WD; Ford 10.5"

Dave

 

[f100cleveland]

The hub isn't loose the axle itself moves inside spindle.

 

[DaveBen]

Ok, sorry. It is OK for the axle to move inside the spindle. No bearings to hold it, only bushings.

Dave

 

[JLDickmon]

I'm not sure on the '06 front end.. on the earlier ones, the stub axle rode in a caged needle bearing.

The locknuts inside the unit bearing still allow for some up and down movement.

 

[f100cleveland]

I guess untill it makes noise I'm not going to tear into it.