left front axle rust?

gtman220 · Post by **gtman220** » 12 Aug 2017, 12:12

I had a clicking sound up front that started all of a sudden. It does it constantly, breaking and accelerating, turning and driving straight. I decided it was probably the cv axle and took it out. The joint is not destroyed but it a bit wore out. The car has 180,00 miles and I think it's the original, so I'm not surprised. Here is my question, when I took the axle out, there is dry rust inside the sleeve that accepts the axle in the transmission. Can any of you guys tell me why this is? Is it bad? Do I just need to grease it when I put the new axle in? It really just seams wrong that it is dry and rusty in there.

Thanks in advance,

Post by **cuhfs** » 13 Aug 2017, 07:27

If you live in a heavy snow or humidity area then it would seem not so unusual. If you live in AZ then it is more strange. I would wipe rust off with a W40 or similar product on a rag, and use a tiny amt of grease for reinstall to help prevent future rust. If the parts rust weld together then it can be a bear to remove. Goods luck.

Post by **oragex** » 13 Aug 2017, 08:46

as above, nothing to worry. Careful with aftermarket axles, some don't even have the right locking ring where it goes into the transmission, better save your original ring in case. A used volvo part is the best choice imho

gtman220 · Post by **gtman220** » 14 Aug 2017, 18:39

Thanks for responses! I'll wipe it down with some good oil and wait for the new axle. I'll keep my old one in case I need an extra part!

gtman220 · Post by **gtman220** » 04 Sep 2017, 04:43

Well, I replaced the drivers side front axle and the clicking was considerable quieter but not gone. So I dug into the CV joint on the axle. I was really tight and very hard to move by hand. After a rebuild kit for the front joint and repacking the rear, I good to go! No more clicking and the thing seams to ride smoother going down the road. Thanks for the help!