Axle vents

[steve6x6x6]

Something I've been pondering is why they just didn't use oil bath bearings instead of grease packed???? I work on lots of trucks with full float rear axles that have never had any issues. Any one know if Rockwells under any other application run oil bath bearings? Wonder if a retrofit kit would be worth the hassle????

Yes oil bath bearings last up to 5 times longer than grease pack. The m35 was designed in 1948 and began production in 1949, the hubs seals were made to keep crap out ( grease pack bearings with outseal )but will not hold oil in. There has been retrofit for the m35 with the latest technologie in seals but with disc brakes only.

 

[Floridianson]

Yes, but only for the first half minute or so, until everything has cooled down enough.

Thought we discussed this in other threads and as for cooling never thought we would be swimming the rears / transfer just a min. or so of fording. I also was thinking not so much about the outer drum seal as that run pretty tight on the hub.Was thinking about input / output shaft seals on axles and transfer. One would think if your not fording but going swimming then set up a pressure system for the axles and transfer but still figure and service for water intrusion after swimming.

 

[Flyingvan911]

I believe the bell housing has a 1/4" NPT hole. You also want to remember to install the plug in the bottom of the bell housing before fording and remove it after.

 

[brianp454]

I used those fittings and 2 rolls of 1/4 inch tubing from Lowes for $3.49 each.

70Deuce (a Club Member) used something like this to do his remote vent project:
They are push in connectors for plastic/vinyl tubing. They come in straights, tees, and elbows.

 

[Valence]

Ya'll may find the links, pictures, and parts list in this thread helpful:

http://www.steelsoldiers.com/showthread.php?53062-Axle-Vent-Anatomy/page3

 

[maccus]

Just came across this old thread and the posting below this one. A couple of things. First on the early 50s axles the vent is up on the right side on the 90 degree gear housing side plate which is sort on the top of the axle. It is not on the axle tube like the later units. They made no deuce axles without a vent. IF your older axel has no vent on that upper right side plate than someone has replaced it with a plate off of a newer axle. Second if you do the remote tubing thing. Remember to not have the tubing go a little downhill as when the moisture condenses and freezes in the low spots in winter you will have one or all the vents blocked. Don't ask me how I know that. You guys in the southern states can probably disregard the second point.

My 1951 M34 REO had the vents in the side plate.