When to replace axles?

[NavyCorpsman]

I have another original unsupported un-scientific completely questionable observation.
I was looking at the photograph on the cover of my owners manual, and the ride height on my rig is the same as the picture. I have not checked the date codes on my axle, but I doubt they have been changed out.
I guess the acid test will be when I unload the axle and see if it drops at least 3 inches as specified by Dexter.

[thesignlady]

Silly Question... does the belly pan need to be dropped for an axle replacement or does it vary by the model year?

[Jim Foster]

No belly pan removal.


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[NavyCorpsman]

Originally Posted by thesignlady

Silly Question... does the belly pan need to be dropped for an axle replacement or does it vary by the model year?

My 78 can be changed out without belly pan removal. Not a silly question at all.

I checked my axle drop this morning and at 30F w/overnight temps in the 20s they relaxed 2 inches.

I don't know if temperature affects the elasticity, I will recheck when the temps are a bit closer to 70F and see if there is any improvement.

Just a thought.....what about air shocks/air bags in place of the oil shocks? Primary load on the elastomer, load assist with low pressure air via bag or cylinder. I could see a benefit for a properly loaded out AS, never to exceed GVWR, heading into the rough stuff.