Axle replacement, Warning – Lull 944E-42 Service Manual User Manual
Page 151

5.5
Model 644E-42/944E-42
Rev. 6/04
Axles, Drive Shafts, Wheels, Tires and Brakes
CLEANING: Clean parts with machined or ground 
surfaces (such as gears, bearings and shafts) with 
emulsion cleaners or petroleum-based cleaners. DO 
NOT steam clean internal components, and the interior of 
the planetary hub and axle housing. Water can cause 
corrosion of critical parts. Rust contamination in the 
lubricant can cause gear and bearing failure. Remove old 
gasket material from all surfaces.
DRYING: Use clean, lintless towels to dry components 
after cleaning. DO NOT dry bearings by spinning them 
with compressed air. This can damage mating surfaces 
due to lack of lubrication. After drying, lightly coat 
components with oil or a rust-preventive chemical to help 
protect them from corrosion. If storing components for a 
prolonged period, wrap them in wax paper.
PERIODIC OPERATION REQUIREMENT: Every two 
weeks, drive the vehicle far enough to cause the drive-
train components to make several complete revolutions. 
This will help assure that internal components receive 
lubrication to minimize deterioration caused by 
environmental factors such as high humidity.
SUBMERSION: If the vehicle has been exposed to water 
deep enough to cover the hubs, disassemble the wheel 
ends, and inspect for water damage and contamination. 
If the carrier housing was submerged in water, and 
especially if the water level was above the vent tube 
(breather), drain the axle, and inspect internal parts for 
water damage and contamination. Before assembling 
and refilling the unit with the specified lubricant(s), clean, 
examine and replace damaged parts as necessary.
Note: Use a suitable puller for bearing removal. Clean, 
inspect and lubricate all bearings just prior to 
reassembly. If replacement of a damaged bearing cup or 
cone is necessary, replace the cup and cone as a set.
5.3.6
Axle Replacement
a. Removal
The front and rear axle assemblies differ in that the front 
axle assembly is equipped with a parking brake 
mechanism and limited-slip feature; the rear axle has 
neither. The following steps outline a typical axle removal 
procedure, suitable for either the front or the rear axle 
assembly.
Cleanliness is extremely important. Before attempting to 
remove the axle, thoroughly clean the vehicle. Avoid 
spraying water or cleaning solution on the stabilizer 
solenoids and other electrical components. If using a 
steam cleaner, seal all openings before steam cleaning.
IMPORTANT: Clear the work area of all debris, 
unnecessary personnel, etc. Allow sufficient space to 
raise the vehicle and to remove the axle.
1. Park the vehicle on a firm, level surface, level the
vehicle, ground the attachment, place the travel 
select lever in the (N) NEUTRAL position, place the 
neutral lock lever in the (N) NEUTRAL LOCK 
position, engage the parking brake switch, straighten 
all wheels and shut the engine OFF.
2. Place an Accident Prevention Tag on both the
ignition key switch and steering wheel, stating that 
the vehicle should not be operated. (Refer to Section 
1.5, “Accident Prevention Tag Usage.”)
3. Unlock and open the engine cover. Allow the engine,
transmission and hydraulic fluid to cool.
WARNING:
An improperly supported
vehicle can fall, causing death or severe 
personal injury. Safely raise and adequately 
support the vehicle, so that it will remain stable 
and in place before attempting to remove an 
axle.
WARNING:
Hot hydraulic fluid can
cause severe burns. Wait for the hydraulic fluid 
to cool before servicing any hydraulic 
component.
WARNING:
Relieve hydraulic pressure
before servicing any hydraulic component. 
Escaping hydraulic fluid under pressure can 
penetrate the skin, causing death or serious 
injury. Cycle parking and service brakes to 
relieve pressure.
