Axle Repair for Heavy-Duty Trucks

The axles of heavy-duty trucks transfer power to the wheels and allow them to rotate, enabling the truck to move. If the axles develop problems, it is important to have them inspected and repaired quickly.

An ill-functioning axle can significantly decrease the stability, control, and braking efficiency of your vehicle. It is important to know the signs of axle damage and have it inspected by a trusted professional.

Axle Bearings

Axle bearings are responsible for transferring power from the axle shaft to your truck’s wheels. The most common sign of a problem with axle bearings is a grinding or rumbling sound that becomes louder while driving. The noise may also change pitch or intensity when turning your truck. If you notice this problem, it is important to seek a professional evaluation right away.

Other signs of an axle problem include unusual vibrations felt in the steering wheel or chassis during driving. These can indicate that the axles are misaligned or damaged. Uneven tire wear also suggests an issue with the axles.

Axle damage can be caused by overloading, exceeding your truck’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), poor road conditions, accidents, and normal wear and tear. Proper maintenance and inspections are essential to keeping your truck’s axles in top condition. By doing so, you’ll be able to maximize your vehicle’s safety and performance. A well-maintained axle also improves fuel efficiency, which saves you money over the long haul.

Axle Shafts

Located on the rear of your truck, axle shafts facilitate movement by transmitting power from the differential to the wheels. These components are usually made of tough materials to withstand the pressure of heavy loads and shocks from harsh road conditions.

Aggressive driving habits can also damage these components by jolting the axle, which increases their stress and risk of breaking. To prevent this, drivers should regularly check their suspension system for damage and replace worn parts.

There are several signs that indicate your truck’s axle shafts need repair or replacement. Common symptoms include vibrations, clunking noises, and steering issues. It’s important to get them repaired to avoid costly breakdowns, improve your vehicle’s performance, and keep your drivers safe on the road. To minimize the chances of damaging these components, we recommend using only high-quality replacements. Be sure to choose an OEM or aftermarket option that is compatible with your vehicle’s specifications and load rating.

Differential

A differential is a crucial component of your truck’s axle system. It allows the powered wheels (front wheels in front-wheel drive vehicles and rear wheels in rear-wheel drive vehicles) to turn at different speeds without damaging your tires or other components.

In this cutaway photo of the basic differential design you can see the worm gears meshed with each other in pairs, and spur gears at the ends of the worm gears connecting them together – the differential transfers power to both wheels if one loses traction. There are other designs for differentials that can transfer power to only one wheel, and some that can lock the differential when needed.

A damaged differential can cause your wheels to squeal or even lock up, causing your truck to jerk when driving and creating dangerous conditions for you and others on the road. Get your differential checked out right away if you have any problems with turning or hear strange sounds.

Wheel Bearings

The wheel bearing is an important part of your truck’s hub assembly, ensuring the smooth rotation of your wheels. It supports the weight of your wheel and withstands the acceleration, braking, and cornering forces that are exerted on it. Without a functioning wheel bearing, you could experience damage to the axle shaft and other components in the steering system.

Like any other part of your truck, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in working condition. The most common sign of a problem with your wheel bearing is humming or vibration while driving. This could be caused by debris or rust in the bearing, water infiltration, and the buildup of heat.

The best way to prevent these problems is through routine inspections and maintenance. This should include a pretrip check to ensure the wheel bearings have enough oil and no signs of leakage. It’s also recommended to replace your wheel bearings with high-quality ones. Replacing your wheel bearings involves removing the brake and axle assemblies, using a special tool to remove the axle nut, and ensuring that the new bearing assembly is properly installed.

If you need axle repair service, please contact us Axle Surgeons So. Ohio.