EIGHT TELLTALE SIGNS YOUR HEAVY-DUTY TRUCK NEEDS AXLE REPAIR

by Betts Marketing Staff

Axles are integral to heavy-duty trucks’ structural integrity, performance, and safety. They bear loads, transfer power, assist in steering, integrate with the suspension system, and ensure overall vehicle stability and balance. Regular maintenance and timely axle repair are essential to keep the truck operating efficiently and safely.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE AXLE?

Support Vehicle Weight

1. Load Bearing: The axle supports the weight of the vehicle and its cargo. It distributes the load evenly to the wheels, ensuring the truck can carry heavy loads without undue strain on any single component.

Wheel Connection and Alignment

1. Connecting Wheels: Axles connect the wheels on each side of the vehicle, providing structural support and maintaining the proper spacing and alignment of the wheels.
2. Maintaining Alignment: Proper alignment ensures the wheels rotate in sync and the vehicle drives straight, enhancing stability and control.

Transmission of Power

1. Power Transfer: Axles transfer power from the engine and transmission to the wheels. The rear axle is especially important in rear-wheel-drive trucks for this function.
2. Rotational Motion: They convert the rotational motion from the drive shaft into the rotational motion of the wheels, enabling the vehicle to move forward or backward.

Steering Mechanism

1. Steering Assistance: In vehicles with front-wheel steering, the front axle facilitates steering. It allows the wheels to pivot and turn, enabling the vehicle to change direction.

Suspension Integration

1. Suspension Support: The axle works with the vehicle’s suspension system. It helps absorb shocks and impacts from the road, contributing to a smoother ride and protecting the vehicle’s components from excessive wear and damage.

Stability and Balance

1. Vehicle Stability: Axles help maintain the vehicle’s stability, especially when carrying heavy loads. They ensure that weight is evenly distributed, preventing excessive stress on any part of the chassis or suspension.
2. Balancing Loads: By evenly distributing the load across the vehicle, axles help maintain balance and prevent tipping or uneven wear on tires.

 

WHAT ARE THE VARIOUS TYPES OF AXLES?

Drive Axle:

Primarily responsible for transmitting power from the differential to the wheels. This is often found in rear-wheel-drive vehicles and heavy-duty trucks.

Front Axle:

Supports the front part of the vehicle and plays a crucial role in steering and suspension. It often includes steering mechanisms in front-wheel-drive vehicles.

Rear Axle:

Carries the weight of the rear part of the vehicle and, in many trucks, is the primary drive axle.

Dead Axle:

These axles do not transmit power but are used to support additional weight, often seen in tandem axle trucks.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON SIGNS YOUR HEAVY-DUTY TRUCK NEEDS AXLE REPAIR?

1. Unusual Noises

1. Clunking or Clanging: These sounds, especially when accelerating, decelerating, or turning, can indicate a damaged axle.
2. Grinding: This noise, often continuous while the vehicle is in motion, might suggest severe wear or damage to the axle or associated components.

2. Vibrations

1. Excessive Vibration: If you feel unusual vibrations from underneath the truck, particularly at certain speeds, it could be a sign of axle issues.
2. Shuddering: A noticeable shuddering when accelerating or turning can indicate problems with the axle or its components.

3. Leaking Fluids

1. Grease Leaks: Axle components, especially those near the wheels, may leak grease if they are damaged or worn. Look for grease around the tire or inner part of the wheel.
2. Oil Leaks: Leaks around the axle seal can indicate that the seal is damaged, which might be due to axle issues.

4. Handling Issues

1. Poor Handling: If the truck is difficult to control, especially when turning or maneuvering, it could be due to axle damage.
2. Pulling to One Side: A misaligned axle can cause the truck to pull to one side while driving.

5. Tire Problems

1. Uneven Tire Wear: Axle issues can lead to uneven wear patterns on the tires, particularly if the axle is misaligned.
2. Frequent Tire Damage: If tires are frequently damaged or worn out faster than expected, it could be due to axle problems.

6. Visible Damage

1. Bent or Damaged Axle: If the axle appears bent, cracked, or damaged upon inspection, it needs immediate repair.
2. Broken or Worn Axle Bearings: Worn or broken axle bearings can be visible upon closer inspection and often require axle repair or replacement.

7. Performance Issues

1. Reduced Efficiency: If the truck’s performance, particularly in power and efficiency, seems diminished, it might be due to axle problems.
2. Unusual Handling Characteristics: Any unusual changes in the truck’s handling, especially under load, could indicate axle damage.

8. Warning Lights

1. ABS Warning Light: Issues with the axle can sometimes trigger the ABS warning light on the dashboard.
2. Check Engine Light: While less common, some axle-related problems might cause the check engine light to come on.

If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to have the truck inspected by one of Betts’  professional mechanics as soon as possible. Early detection and repair of axle issues can prevent further damage and ensure the truck’s safety and reliability.

WHY CHOOSE BETTS TRUCK PARTS & SERVICE AS YOUR TRUCK AXLE REPAIR SHOP?

• Experience: We’ve provided truck axle repair solutions for over 30 years. Bring your rig to Betts and we’ll diagnose and repair the problem quickly so you can get back on the road.
• Parts: Your truck is only as tough as its weakest part. We use only the very best replacement parts from top manufacturers. We also stock a huge inventory of aftermarket truck parts and aftermarket trailer parts for DIY repairs and maintenance.
• Locations: Fleets on or traveling through the West Coast rely on Betts. We have seven full-service locations throughout Arizona, Oregon, and California.

For more information or to schedule repairs be sure to visit our page on truck and trailer axle repair.

Additional Resources:

Truck Axle Positioning Charts