I need help. I have the original torque tube set up on my 1946 1/2 ton with a 3 speed trans. While I see many posts on the 'torque tube' set up, most apply to 1947 (ADs) and later.
I have several questions.
Does the transmission fluid flow into the torque tube on the 46 1/2 ton setup? If not, is there a seal at the back of the transmission that keeps the fluid from going into the torque tube from the transmission? Or a seal at the front of the torque tube to stop the fluid from coming from the transmission? If so, what kind of seal is it (are they) and how hard is it to replace?
Also, how many universal joints are inside the torque tube on the 46 1/2 ton and how are they lubricated? Per the link and verbiage below, there is one U joint at the back of the torque tube on an AD truck. Again, how is it lubricated?
Does fluid flow between the torque tube and the rear end? If not, is there a seal at the back of the torque tube or the front of the rear end that keeps the fluid from going between the torque tube and the rear end? and if so, again how is the U joint lubricated?
How does the knurled slip collar at the front of the torque tube come into play? Does it do any 'sealing' of fluid in the torque tube?
I have reviewed my 42-46 Chevrolet Shop manual for this information with no success.
I also viewed this thread which describes the function of the torque tube in an AD truck.
Previous torque tube thread And this verbiage from that thread making me think the trans fluid should not go into the torque tube:
"In the torque tube there are bushings and a seal, the latter keeps transmission oil from going down the tube to the differential. If that seal goes you will never keep oil in the trans as it will overflow into the diff and either blow out the vent or axle seals. Been there done that".
This verbiage references there only being 'one' U joint at the back, but again this was for an AD (47 or later). Was the setup similar/same in '46?
I also saw many references to an
Okie bushing being used to 'seal' the torque tube. Is this ever done on a '46? Why an Okie bushing versus replacing the factory set-up?
I am asking all of this as I plan to pull the rearend and have a driveshaft shop install 3.55 gears. Since I'll have the torque tube out, I want to make sure it is sealed/set up properly.
Any help is greatly appreciated!!!!
Big T
