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My '65 roadster's differential, I belive is out of a '74 bb seems to have a lot of movement at the side stub axles. They move in-out about 1/4 inch. They've been this way since I bought the car about 8k miles ago. There is no fluid leak apparent. Just recently I noticed some howling from that area, maybe because the top is up more lately. Should this movement be addressed?
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Re: C2-3 Differential
Frank-----
Most definitely it should be addressed. The very likely culprit is excessive end wear of the stub axles. This is a very common problem with 63-82 Corvettes, especially those from the mid-70s onward (which is where your differential unit apparently came from). Excessive wear of the posi clutch packs could also be a contributory factor. Regardless, it's rebuild time for the unit. You'll need to replace the stub axles with rebuilt or new units. Rebuilt units with through-hardened end buttons are very durable and eliminate the problem of wear-through of the case hardening used for original axle shafts. Another good choice are new stub axles manufactured by International Axle Co. of Dayton, MN.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: C2-3 Differential
Thanks Joe; Your always there when we need you! I was afraid of that. What other damage may have occurred to the diff while I've been driving this car? I'll get the good ones with the hardened buttons, best source?Comment
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Re: C2-3 Differential
Frank-----
Well, the metal ground off the ends of the stub axles will not have done the differential assembly any good. That metal is circulating all around in the gear lube, coursing its way through gears and bearings. However, you'll need to rebuild the differential, anyway. At that time, everything will be cleaned. The bearings will be replaced and the gears inspected for wear and damage. Posi clutch pack is usually replaced and, in any event, I so-recommend. Chances are, the gears, ring & pinion and spiders, will be fine, though.
Most of the vendors sell good quality rebuilt stub axles. On the west coast, I recommend Carter's Corvette in Livermore, CA (www.corvettesvc@earthlink.net OR 925-449-2176). Carter's are the ones that I use.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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Correction
Carter's has no web site. The address I gave should have been an e-mail address only---NOT a web address. Just leave of the www.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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Re: C2-3 Differential
Frank,
I was noticing in the Yogi Bair's video that they provide a rebuild service to install hardened buttons on existing side axles. I don't know whether this would be a good cost-effective option for you or not.
You can always give them a call to discuss.
Good luck,
GeneComment
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Re: C2-3 Differential
Hey Gene, Had a look at Yogi's web site. Hadn't seen that one before. Looks like a good parts source. Thanks. I'll check out Carters to. Thanks Joe. I think rebuilds or new with buttons are the way to go. Guess that'll be a winter job. Was thinkin' about doin' a gear change anyway. Now I gotta do it, 'cause I was only going to change the engine to a bb and do major suspension work in the off season anyway. I got money I haven't even spent yet.Comment
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Re: C2-3 Differential
Joe....Do you have an address for this International axle?Comment
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Re: C2-3 Differential
Joe...Forget the address, I found it. Thanks for the info......Comment
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Re: C2-3 Differential
Bruce - Tom is a super guy, a real straight shooter. I toured his facility in Dayton MN when I was up there one time. I have purchased many parts and his tools for rear end work. Here is his website.........Craig
International Axle & ManufacturingComment
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