Rear axle play

[Mbrooks420]

When I grab my rear wheel at the top and shake it(like driver side to passenger side) back and forth there is a bunch of play, and a knocking sound. I'm almost positive this is dangerous, and the truck is going to get parked. My friend said it looks like the caliper is loose. Could that be it? Any ideas? I'll look into more when I get home from work. Thanks in advance, I'm sure someone will have some insight

 

[Tarron]

Nope, the caliper doesn't hold the wheel on. It may move too but there is something else worn or loose.

 

[Blue Steel]

is the whole rear axle that has play, or just the wheels? did you put it on jack stands and shake the wheel, or was it on the ground?

 

[Jason_25]

That's normal. It's just the axleshaft moving out until the c-clip keeps it from falling all the way out.

 

[MyExpWork]

Mine does the same. Its normal to have some play.

Ive got over 160,000 miles on it and the axles are still there.

I'll let you know if they fall off.

Brian

 

[Mbrooks420]

That's normal. It's just the axleshaft moving out until the c-clip keeps it from falling all the way out.

That's what I was hoping to hear! How much is too much play? My guestimation is that it moves at least 1/4 inch at the wheel. Prob. 1/2.

 

[Jason_25]

I have no idea really but don't worry about it. Too much play is when the axleshaft comes out.

 

[ld50]

ha ha, an old gem there

 

[FordSploderXLT]

I wouldn't say that much play is normal. Mine did that on the drivers side rear after someone replaced the bearings in it, and less than 2 weeks later, the c-clip on the drivers side shaft was gone. This has happened a few times now. And I may not be a certifed mechanic, but I know enough to know that this is not good.

 

[Mbrooks420]

I put 40K on it and it never got any worse. They all have some play in them. So why did you revive this LD50?

 

[Hokie]

Mine's got the same thing...

Driver's side = 1/8-1/4" of movement (in/out at the axle tube)
P Side = 1/2"

 

[ld50]

Too much play is when the axleshaft comes out.

If this happens, I suggest taking it to a reputable repair shop, and/or a body shop depending on the situation of the loss of your shaft!

hehe, I just though it was funny, maybe I was just tired!