Section 11: REAR AXLES
PA1593
2
1. DRIVE AXLE
1.1 DESCRIPTION
The Meritor drive axle is equipped with a single
reduction standard carrier mounted in front of
the axle housing. The carrier consists of a
hypoid drive pinion, a ring gear set and gears in
the differential assembly.
FIGURE 1: DRIVE AXLE 11019
A straight roller bearing (spigot) is mounted on
the head of the drive pinion. All other bearings in
the carrier are tapered roller bearings. When the
carrier operates, there is a normal differential
action between the wheels all the time.
FIGURE 2: DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY 11024
Several speed ratios are available for the drive
axle. These ratios depend upon the motor and
transmission. Also, special applications may
suggest slightly different gear ratios.
1.2 DRIVE AXLE LUBRICATION
Use Multigrade gear oil 85W140 meeting MIL-
PRF-2105-E, tested and approved to SAE
J2360. If temperature drops below 10°F (-12°C),
80W90 should be used, and below -15°F (-
26°C), 75W90 should be used. Additional
lubrication information is covered in the Meritor
Technical Bulletin "Approved Rear Drive Axle
Lubricants" annexed to this section.
In extreme conditions, or for better performance,
fill with synthetic gear oil.
MAINTENANCE
Check oil level and add (if necessary) every
5,000 miles (8 000 km) or once a month,
whichever comes first (Fig. 3).
MAINTENANCE
Change differential oil and clean the
breathers, magnetic fill and drain plugs, every
25,000 miles (40 000 km) or once a year,
whichever comes first.
If using full synthetic gear oil, change
differential oil and clean the breathers,
magnetic fill and drain plugs, every 100,000
miles (160 000 km) or every two years,
whichever comes first.
FIGURE 3: DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING BOWL 11007
1.3 MAINTENANCE
Proper vehicle operation begins with preventive
maintenance, such as good differential use. The
most common types of drive axle carrier failures
are spinout, shock, fatigue, overheating and
lubrication. Avoid neglecting these points since
they would be the first steps to improper
maintenance, expensive repairs, and excessive
downtime.
Inspect the pinion oil seal, axle shaft flange and
carrier housing gaskets for evidence of lubricant
leakage. Tighten the bolts and nuts, or replace
the gaskets and seals to correct leaks.
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