Hey guys, I bought a set of the standard warn hubs for my 78 f-150 with a Dana 44. As I was installing them/reading the directions, I realized that You are unable to utilize the axle retaining snap-ring with the aftermarket hubs.

It says specifically in the instructions, the 77 1/2-79 fords may not be able to use the snap ring. Also, that this will not affect the functioning of the hubs. I agree with that, as the hubs work fine.

My problem is that I do not like the fact that I can't put the snap ring on. For one, the hub does not really tighten up properly. BUT, my main concern is that without the snap ring it allows the axle to float in and out. The main concern here is that the axle is able to float inboard far enough that the v-seal on the inboard side of the spindle is allowed to break contact!

I am wondering if I did something wrong, or that is just the way they are? Are there any aftermarket hubs that will allow me to use the snap ring? If not, I wil put my factory ones back in as the worked fine.'

I just do not like the way this setup is.

Am I missing something??

Thanks!

 

A cost-saving measure, I'm sure.

Guess what? The original hubs were made by WARN also. If it has them on the originals, I'd use them. Just convert the grease to synthetic.

 

I had the entire front end gutted, and am using mobil one synthetic grease yes.

I just don't like not being able to use the snap ring. Without it, there is nothing to keep the axle from floating in and out and allowing dirt/water into the needle bearing area.

The only reason I was gonna replace the factory ones in the first place is that the engagement gear that slides onto the axle and rides against the spindle has a very deep groove worn into the in-board side. One is worse than the other. They still worked fine, so unless anyone knows where I could get just that gear, I'll just put them back in the way they are.

 

I wonder if this is the same for the premium hubs too?

 

most of the time you remove the inner snapring that rides next to the spindel. Instal the hubs and then use a ring on the end of the hub and that is now the ring that holds the axle in place

 

I believe the premium hubs are the same. I know for certain that the mile marker hubs are the same way.

The body of the hubs are too thick, they stick out-board far enough that they cover the snap-ring groove. They only leave about 1/4 inch of axle when they are installed all the way. I guess a guy could grind a new groove in the axle, but I won't do that.

I have no idea how the 77 1/2-79 axles differ, but apparently they do because the instructions specify those years, they also say i think 84-86 fords, and a few chevy also can't use the snap ring.

In any case I don't like it and will be putting my originals back in!

I wonder if there is any way to just buy the gear that is worn out on the factory ones??

 

I just thought I'd bump this out of curiosity's sake. Personally I like to find the answer to these smaller details also. (probably why I never get anything done...)