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Topic: Re: Pulling only the drivers side axel ok? (Read 592 times) previous topic - next topic

Re: Pulling only the drivers side axel ok?

Quote
I forgot to ask in original post is pulling only the drivers side axel ok?  Thanks for the info as this is my first FT.  David

Does anyone know the answer to this?  Thanks,  David
David & Lou Ann Bouchard
Summer: Mount Vernon, Ohio
Winter: RiverBend Motorcoach Resort  LaBelle, Florida
2003 U320 38' Build #6174 "Willie"
2013 Cadillac SRX Toad
MC #17151 FMCA #F431393

Re: Re: Pulling only the drivers side axel ok?

Reply #1 –
It should be fine. The wheels are supported by bearings in the hub assembly, and the "axle" merely transmits the drive force from the differential to the wheel. If one axle is pulled, then the differential rotates because it is still connected to the other wheel, but the driveshaft and transmission do not rotate. That is the key: the transmission will likely be damaged if it rotates while being towed, but pulling one axle prevents that from occurring. Glad you had a successful repair!
David and Carolyn Osborn
1995 U320C SE 40' Build 4726 Feb 1995
FMCA 147762
Motorcade 17186

Re: Re: Pulling only the drivers side axel ok?

Reply #2 –
Quote
I forgot to ask in original post is pulling only the drivers side axle ok?
Seems to me the internal differential gears will be spinning constantly and they are not designed to spin that fast or that long - depending on the actual tow.  Those gears normally only spin during turns which are always low speed and limited duration.  The guildlines for towing will say remove driveshaft or axles (plural not singular). 

If I were you I would talk to a place that works on differentials (and a trusted source) and tell them exactly how far and fast they towed it.  If there's a question about if damage was done have them inspect it - better now than later and remove any cloud of doubt.  Then submit bill to towing company and hope for the best.  Just my opinion.
John Fitzgerald
1991 U300 (SAI) Side Aisle Island Bed 40'
Detroit 6V92 with Allison Retarder
Meridian (Boise), Idaho

Re: Re: Pulling only the drivers side axel ok?

Reply #3 –
John & Tina are correct in that removing just one axle can damage differential internals (spider gears & case). It technically could also turn internal transmission output gears if differential gear oil is cold or something else slows down the cage and sends rotational energy to transmission. Removing both axles for sure, protects differential & transmission as only rear wheels turn.

When rear axles are removed for towing our motorhome, the open axle ends must be sealed to prevent rear axle gear oil from running out. We carry Axlecaps to close it off. Blank Title - Home

Re: Re: Pulling only the drivers side axel ok?

Reply #4 –
Quote from: Barry & Cindy –
When rear axles are removed for towing our motorhome, the open axle ends must be sealed to prevent rear axle gear oil from running out. We carry Axlecaps to close it off. Blank Title - Home
Which cap for the 1997 coaches?
J D Stevens
1997 U295 CAI 36' Build #5085
2002 Subaru Outback
Motorcade 16869
Bellville, TX