Improve Seal on Knuckle Ball? (1 Viewer)

[Rocky_LC]

I am tearing into my knuckles, due to a poor seal on the axle (inner seal). I intend to use the Marlin Crawler Double Seal... But that's another subject.

The wipers / felts didn't seal that well either.

As I look at the axle balls, I note the surface could use some work. What's the best way to provide a surface that will give me a (better) seal?

I know I need to get the weld debris off on the back side, but I want to do something to cover the pitting - without removing or replacing the axle housing.

Thanks -

Rocky

 

[Fast Eddy]

Good grease inside the knuckle balls will effectively fill those pits in real-time. I don't think it's advisable to grind on them.

You can buy brand new ones if you're willing to do some cutting and welding: Diamond Axle Knuckle Balls

 

[Rocky_LC]

Thanks, Eddie -

I plan to remove the "weld balls" on the backside, but agree that taking a grinder to them is not the solution.

Appreciate the lead on the balls, but that's probably a bigger job than I'm ready to tackle.

Rocky

 

[B y r o n]

Clean off the rust, your choice of methods, hit with rust reformer paint to treat anything left and top coat with semi gloss black paint where it sits.

 

[1969FJ]

I did mine. I used this kit and they came out like new.

Metal Polishing Kit for Aluminium, Steel , 3" Polishing wheel | eBay

 

[Rocky_LC]

Thanks, All - Appreciate the recommendations.

 

[jim land]

I use jb weld to fill the pitted area on the balls, orbital sander to smooth it with 180 and 320

 

[4x4veteran]

In the late 80's I had to replace the spindle bearings so decided to put new rubber and felt on as well.
I found a large brim felt hat and cut out the pieces.
Then cut up an inner-tube for the rubber.
About three years ago did new brakes and wheel bearings.
The felt and rubber still looked good but figured of I did new felt and rubber then, it might save me the trouble in the next 10 years or so when I am in "MY" 80's
Found another hat and inner-tube.
The hat felt looks heavier than what the kits look like.