The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks 65 C10 Axle Play

Hello everyone, I just purchased this 65 and noticed I have about a 1/4” of axle play when servicing the brakes. I was just curious if this can be fixed by changing the c-clips. Didn’t want to rebuild the rear end just yet! Thanks.

The C-clips being worn would definitely be the best scenario, more likely the bearings behind the spiders or a combo of both and replacing the clips would gain you something. If the pinion doesn't have a lot of clunking then the carrier bearings are probably not too loose. When you go to put clips in it, you'll find out.

Ive seen a zillon of half ton rear axles, ranging from very old to very modern with a ton of slop when pulling axle outward with the wheels off the ground. If there isn't any other obvious issue, noise, banging, whining, or excessive metal or chunks in the diff, run it. Some c-clip diffs just have this character. And you probably would of never known unless you pulled on the axle with wheels up. I also never can say ive seen any c-clips worn to replacement was necessary. But then again, ive havent seen it all.

Thanks, the truck isn’t running so I don’t know if it clunks or whines. I need to change the seals so I’ll probably go ahead and rebuild it. I’ll let you know what I find.

I'm with Glenn. I've never seen many that didn't have enough slop to make me scratch my head. I can't remember ever having to replace C clips unless some ninny threw them away not knowing what they were.

Stag, since the rig is new to you, might want to get it up on stands, remove the cover & have a look. Get a helper or 2 to push / pull axle shaft while you watch (can leave wheels on). Should be able to see axles move in side gears. Make sure there is no side to side movement of the ring gear / carrier.

Thanks for the inputs! Finally getting back to work on the truck. I’ve decided to just leave it be for now so I can get rolling down the road. Quick question though, can the front seal on the differential be changed by taking the yoke off or will that mess up the pinion gear? It has to be changed. The previous owner drove it with a worn out carrier support bearing and the underside of the bed is covered with gear lube.