rear diff problem? m38a1

jonknownothin · Post by **jonknownothin** » Sat Feb 05, 2011 5:11 pm

hey guys I just got the engine running on this old jeep that I bought. when I put it in gear the prop shaft turns but the rear wheels do not. If I engage the front, it can drive with front wheel drive. I'm guessing this would be the differential, but would like some advice. Is this something I can tackle with the right manual or should I take it to the shop thanks, Jon

Post by **wesk** » Sat Feb 05, 2011 5:38 pm

Jack the rear wheels off the floor. Put the tranny in gear and the transfer in 2 high. Rotate one rear tire. The opposite tire should rotate the opposite way. If the other tire does not move you have a damaged differential or a broken axle.

hillbilly21 · Post by **hillbilly21** » Sat Feb 05, 2011 5:48 pm

Whats your location ???

might find a complete rearend somewhere close !!!

jonknownothin · Post by **jonknownothin** » Sat Feb 05, 2011 6:03 pm

I'm in sunny southern California. San Pedro to be exact. I jacked up the rear end and spun one tire and the other tire didn't spin. Is it easier to buy a replacement then repairing a rear axle?
(It's a 53 m38a1)

DJ · Post by DJ » Sat Feb 05, 2011 10:20 pm

It may be a only a broken axle. Check them first.

Post by **wesk** » Sun Feb 06, 2011 4:32 pm

You'll need to evaluate your mechanical aptitude limits. The axle replacement is simple for us old time experienced mechanics but can turn into a real nightmare for a novice who exceeds his limitations.

Try to first put your nose into the manual that covers the axle removal and the differential removal and read through it. Look at the parts manual illustrations as you review the task. Take careful inventory of the tools needed for the job. Do you have them? Can you borrow or rent them. Especially the special puller for the rear axle hub. There's a case spreader required for the differential removal which can be worked around. There's a shimming process you'll need to get familiar with for the axle bearings.

So give this all a lot of thought first.

The manuals you should have already open and lying on your bench are the TM 9-8014, TM 9-8015-2 and the ORD 9 SNL G-758.

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