Rear End Woes

[FordSploderXLT]

Okay, Im having a problem with C-Clips vanishing on the left axle shaft....... 2 Questions to start off with. Would not having a parking brake make any difference on axle shaft play? And If the parking brake makes no difference, why would there be enough play in the shaft for a C-Clip to fall off/grind away? I would appreciate answers ASAP. Thanks guys.

 

[Doug]

A lack of parking brake should have no effect on the c clips. i knew one guy who had an 8.8 in a jeep and it was eating c-clips it turned out his axle housing was bent.

 

[FordSploderXLT]

I really don't understand it.....there is about 1/2"-3/4" play in the shaft....When its all the way in, and touching the pinion shaft, theres just enough room that the c-clip could slid off.....However, with the shaft pulled all the way out, with the clip right up against the spider gear, its about 1/2" out from the dust shield. Anyone got any other ideas other that the housing being bent? Thanks.