If you own a four-by-four truck, then you are probably aware that it is fitted with a front output shaft bearing. The bearing is an integral part of a four-wheel drive vehicle's gearbox. First, it helps to keep the output shaft in place and prevents it from wobbling about. Secondly, it allows the shaft to spin with ease thereby enhancing efficient power transfer. Although an output shaft bearing can last the entire lifespan of a vehicle, it is prone to mechanical problems. Therefore, you must always be on the lookout for signs of front output shaft bearing failure. The signs highlighted in this post will alert you concerning possible issues.
Noisy Drivetrain
If you hear your drivetrain making strange noises, then you should count yourself lucky. The reason is that it is usually the first sign that the bearing is failing. At this point, you want to arrest the problem as soon as possible. When the bearing starts to wear out, or lubrication dries up, it will produce sounds whenever you engage the 4WD system. Usually, it is a howling sound, and in some cases, you'll hear hissing noises. If your car is produce grinding sounds, then it is more than likely that the bearing is completely worn out and needs replacing. If you are not sure whether the noise is coming from the gearbox you can gradually increase speed and listen keenly; notably, the intensity of the sounds tends to increase with vehicle speed.
Drivetrain Wobbling
When you are cruising, and you notice that your car is vibrating excessively, then it could be a sign of a wobbling front output shaft bearing. The wobbling comes about when the bearing isn't holding the shaft securely consequently causing it to rotate unevenly. Usually, the vibrations are accompanied by relatively banging sounds.
Oil Leak from Casing
When you park your car, and you notice an oil patch underneath you need to pop the hood immediately and establish the source of the leak. An oil leak under the hood could point to several issues. If the leak is on the transfer casing, then it means that the problem lies with the front output shaft bearing. In addition to holding the transfer casing securely in place, the shaft bearing also acts as a seal thereby preventing gear oil from leaking out. Therefore, make sure that you replace the bearing before it is too late or risk losing the vehicle's 4WD capabilities as a result of low gear oil.
For more information, contact companies that specialise in gearbox repairs.
Yo! My name is Max. Because of my love of cars, my friends call me Mad Max after the character from the classic 1980s film who drives those crazy cars around in a post-apocalyptic Australian landscape. My love of cars started when I was very young. I would spend hours sitting in the garage watching my dad working on his old Ford. As he worked, he would explain to me what he was doing. When I was older, I bought my own car and started to work on it myself so I could upgrade it. I used to visit the auto garage so I could get some advice and tips from the professionals. I hope you like my blog.