aseyc

Hi,

Today I took off the rear wheels to do some cleaning works and I noticed that both rear wheel hubs have excessive play both in/out and up/down. I re-installed both wheels and lowered the car back on the wheels and when I tried to force the wheels in / out with my hands, I hear a clanking noise.

I read that the rear axle shaft are held in place by some kind of U / C clip. Could this clip have worn out cousing this problem on both wheels?
Perhaps this is a normal behaviour of the 2005 Mustang GT?
I think there is something around 1/8" play in / out.

PS. The car has 28K on the clock.

Your comments are greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Alex

SpartaPerformance

If that clip wore out your axles would completely come out, most likely you have worn axle bearings.

aseyc

So the axle bearing is also responsible for in/out movement?Thought that reflects only up/down.

Am also noticing a lot of people in forums mainly on older mustangs saying that in/out play is normal?? Some are also mentioning worn lsd clutches.

Seems like there are a lot of doubts on this issue.

J2L06GT

There is a pin in the center of the differential assy, the last part to be installed,
first part you have to remove to get c-clips off axles,that should keep the axle
in/out play to a minimum, if this pin is missing or worn will cause end play.

aseyc

Going to check it out now and will let you know what discover.

thankd

aseyc

Hi
I opened the diff cover, removed bolt, pin and c clips and took out the driveshafts. To my surprise there were no signs of wear whatsoever.
The axle bearing is a roller type, not even tapered. This results in a little up/down movement to be acceptable as with any other plain roller bearing.
Re in/out movement this is also considered normal.The c clip sits in a groove which also has an O ring to dampen the noise when the shaft tries to move out.
Conclusion is that a little play is normal on these cars.Might seem strange for people used to independent or non c clip setups as their bearings are sealed press-fit type.
The only way to get rid of the play is to try some kind of c clip eliminators but as this is a normal behaviour I wouldnt worry much about itn

Thanks

AS