ABOUT USED AXLES

WHAT IS AN AXLE?

An axle is a central shaft for a rotating wheel or gear.

WHAT DOES THE PART DO?

The function of the axle is to help rotate all four wheels of a car, truck, or SUV. Also, axles are important in supporting the overall weight of the vehicle.

WHAT DOES THE PART LOOK LIKE?

An axle is a long, metal shaft that extends to a wheel. The shaft is a long, thin cylinder that is made of SAE grade 41xx steel or SAE grade 10xx steel.

WHERE IS THERE PART TYPICALLY LOCATED ON THE VEHICLE?

The axle is located under the vehicle, perpendicular to the wheel.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A USED AXLE?

The first and most important thing to look for in an axle is to make sure that there are no brakes or cracks anywhere on the part. Also, check to make sure that there is no rust or corrosion anywhere on the axle itself. You also want to check for any signs of excessive wear to ensure that it will not break while the vehicle is in operation. Finally, check to see if there are any signs of the axle being in an accident.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT AN AXLE BEFORE I PURCHASE ONE?

A four-wheel vehicle will typically have four axles. There are also front and rear axles. Therefore, you want to make sure that you purchase the right axle for the vehicle. Also, if you are looking to purchase axles for a truck, then you should know that trucks will typically have five axles - 3 on the truck and 2 on the trailer.

WHAT OTHER PARTS ARE CONNECTED OR THAT I MAY NEED FOR THIS PART?

The axle is connected to the wheel of a vehicle. If you are looking to replace an axle, then you will need the following tools:

• Breaker bar
• Drain pan
• Dead-blow hammer
• Jack and jack stands
• Long-handed diagonal cutting pliers
• Large hammer or mallet
• Ratchet and socket set
• Pry bar or CV axle puller
• Wrench set
• Safety glasses
• Screwdrivers
• Torque wrench
• Wheel chocks

WHAT SIGNS OF WEAR SHOULD I LOOK AT WHEN BUYING A USED AXLE?

If you are shopping for a used axle, then be sure to look for any signs of rust. Rust on an axle can be common if the part is coming from a vehicle that has been used in lots of snow-related driving. Also, be sure to look for any impact damage from axles that you could be pulling from off-road vehicles. Finally, check for any signs of damage from axles that have been involved in previous accidents.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF AN AXLE?

An axle can last about 100,000 miles or about seven years.

WHEN SHOULD THE PART BE REPLACED?

If you are noticing vibrations from your vehicle, then the axle may be in poor condition and need to be replaced. Also, a loud clanking sound is another indicator of an old axle that may have axle-joint damage. Finally, if the vehicle is leaking grease, then the axle may need to be replaced.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT AXLES

WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF AXLE?

The parts of an axle include outer C.V. joints, nuts, boot clamps, roll pins, and the shaft.

HOW MUCH CAN IT COST TO HAVE AN AXLE INSTALLED?

The labor cost on an axle replacement can vary from $100 to $200 depending on the vehicle.

HOW LONG WILL A USED AXLE LAST?

A used axle can last anywhere from 30,000 to 50,000 miles depending on the age and the condition of the used part. Axles that come from off-road vehicles may have a shorter lifespan than axles that come from a vehicle that was primarily used for road driving.