Axle Shafts & Housings: Essential Maintenance for Your Truck’s Drivetrain
Axle shafts are critical to a truck’s drivetrain, transferring power from the driveshaft to the wheel hubs with the help of the differentials. Housed within the axle housing, these components work tirelessly to keep your medium or heavy-duty fleet running smoothly. At Blackwater Diesel, we specialize in maintaining, repairing, and replacing axle shafts for trucks of all kinds.
Axle housings play a vital role in protecting drivetrain components, supporting suspension systems, and keeping wheels secure. Filled with lubricants to ensure proper function, these housings don’t require maintenance—but the components inside do. Over time, the gear oil that lubricates axle shafts and differential gears breaks down and must be replaced. Regular oil changes are essential, with service intervals typically ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on your truck’s usage.
The Dangers of Leaking Gear Oil
A leak from one part of your axle housing affects the entire assembly. For example, if fluid leaks from one of your axle seals, the entire axle housing will be low on gear oil. This means your axle shafts, differential gears, and even your primary driveshaft components connected to your differential will be affected. Excess friction can result in premature component wear and even complete failure if the leaks are severe. To prevent this from happening, be sure to inspect your fleet of trucks before every trip. If you see leaking gear oil, call Blackwater Diesel right away!
Symptoms of Damaged Axles
Understanding the signs and symptoms of damaged axles can save you a lot of money in the long run and even prevent unexpected breakdowns. Symptoms to look out for include extreme power loss, handling issues, a truck that pulls to one side, and strange clunking and rattling sounds. If you or your drivers notice any of these symptoms, be sure to give Blackwater Diesel a call right away. We’ll repair any damage, catch your trucks up on maintenance, and get you back out on the road.
SERVICES
OUR OTHER SERVICES
HAVE A QUESTION?
Contact US!