Spicer Tandem Drive Axle Dual Range & Double Planetary 34,000-45,000 lbs - Manual (Page 14)

Cleaning, Inspection, Replacement
As the drive axle is disassembled, set all parts aside for thorough
cleaning and inspection. Careful inspection will help determine whether
parts should be reused. In many cases, the causes of premature wear or
drive axle failure will also be revealed.
Cleaning
The differential carrier assembly may be steam-cleaned while mounted in
the housing as long as all openings are tightly plugged. Once removed
from its housing, do not steam clean differential carrier or any compo-
nents. Steam cleaning at this time could allow water to be trapped in
cored passages, leading to rust, lubricant contamination, and premature
component wear. The only proper way to clean the assembly is to dis-
assemble it completely. Other methods will not be effective except as
preparatory steps in the process. Wash steel parts with ground or polished
surfaces in solvent. There are many suitable commercial solvents avail-
able. Kerosene and diesel fuel are acceptable.
WARNING:
GASOLINE IS NOT AN ACCEPTABLE SOLVENT BECAUSE
OF ITS EXTREME COMBUSTIBILITY. IT IS UNSAFE IN THE
WORKSHOP ENVIRONMENT.
Wash castings or other rough parts in solvent or clean in hot solution
tanks using mild alkali solutions. If a hot solution tank is used, make
sure parts are heated thoroughly, before rinsing.
Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of the cleaning solution. Dry parts
immediately with clean rags.
Lightly oil parts if they are to be reused immediately. Otherwise, coat
with oil and wrap in corrosion-resistant paper. Store parts in a clean, dry
place.
Inspection
Inspect steel parts for notches, visible steps or grooves created by wear.
Look for pitting or cracking along gear contact lines. Scuffing, deforma-
tion or discoloration are signs of excessive heat in the axle, usually
related to low lubricant levels or improper lubrication practices.
Before reusing a gear set, inspect teeth for signs of excessive wear.
Check tooth contact pattern for evidence of incorrect adjustment (see
Adjustment Section for correct pattern).
Inspect machined surfaces of cast or malleable parts. They must be free
of cracks, scoring, and wear. Look for elongation of drilled holes, wear
on surfaces machined for bearing fits and nicks or burrs in mating
surfaces.
Inspect fasteners for rounded heads, bends, cracks or damaged threads.
The axle housing should be examined for cracks or leaks. Also look for
loose studs or cross-threaded holes.
Inspect machined surfaces for nicks and burrs.
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