circlip/axle question

[68442]

I'm curious as to how a front axles is held into the carrier? Does the circlip hold it? What would cause a front axle to pop out?

 

[NN4S]

I'm curious as to how a front axles is held into the carrier? Does the circlip hold it? What would cause a front axle to pop out?

There is a wire clip that fits into a groove in the splined end of the axle where it slides into the tranny; the spring tension that it provides is what keeps the axle in place. This part isn't supposed to be reused, but some folks do. It can slip out if there is no longer enough tension to hold it in place.

I have had one come out going down the highway on a car I had just picked up because of this; it just ceased to pull the car along and sprayed tranny fluid all over the place. I was lucky in that it didn't come all the way out; just enough to lose drive & it's seal. Replced the seal & the circlip and I never had any more trouble from it.

 

[68442]

Thanks! I was looking at my manual wondering, it wasn't explained.