can I run my truck w/o the drivers side front axle? (1 Viewer)

[bowyer2002]

I tore the CV boot and a complete new unit will not be here until Wed!
I could reinstall the old axle but can I just run w/o it installed or will i tear something up?

Passenger side -oops!

 

[Jetboy]

I don't think it'd be a big issue on the hub side. However I think you'll have issues on the diff side. The fluid will leak out without the axle sealing it in. If you've got a complete new axle coming I'd just run the old one. If you've just got a new boot coming I'd probably build a makeshift boot out of something to keep it from getting too much dirt in it. If you've already got the axle off, you could probably get a boot for ~$10 at the parts store. It's cheaper than a new diff, plus then you'd have a good trail spare.

 

[bowyer2002]

I did just finish driving it about 15 miles w/o incident.
I ziptied a plastic trash bag cover over the inboard (differential) and the interior of the hub.
While not totally sealed it should get me by for 2 days while my axle shaft arrives.
Jetboy - thanks for the quick response!

 

[slow95z]

you dont need anything in there. i have gone over 100 miles back from an offroad trip without a front cv.

 

[Jetboy]

you dont need anything in there. i have gone over 100 miles back from an offroad trip without a front cv.

How did you keep dirt, water, mud, etc from contaminating the diff? Just hope that what gets in there isn't enough to destroy the diff? I guess water would be the least of my worries compared to mud or dust which would more or less be impossible to get out without a removal and thorough cleaning.

I realize that the fluid may be low enough not to pour out on flat ground, but what about a off camber situations?

 

[bowyer2002]

I am only using the truck for transportation and will only log about 70 miles over the next couple of days. No off camber situations or creek crossings will be encountered - thanks for all the input!

 

[FlatlandTRD]

A "Pringles" lid will fit the diff to protect it, and might even work as an extra precaution to keep any potential debris away from the wheel bearing in the hub. Plus, then you have snacks.

 

[bowyer2002]

I looked for a lid but all we have is bagged chips!
Snacks would be great! W/O the differential fluid flavor, the'd be even better!

 

[bowyer2002]

BTW - if you have to replace the outer CV boot you have to do the inner.
FWIW - and not trying to pick on any particular autoparts store -
The boots (in stock) at Auto Zone were $19 for (one) outer and $29 for (one) inner boot plus your time to install them.
Oreilly Auto had the COMPLETE axel with lifetime warranty (will arrive in 2 days) for about $69 - WTF!
that is why I am w/o and axle for a couple of days and even the drivers side axle is ordered to replace it at 145k miles, & keep as a spare.