How much play in the axles at the trans is OK?

[kartracer46]

I was up under my Festy today looking at a few things. I had noticed the past few days the trans doesn't want to go into reverse very easy. So I figured I would lube and inspect the linkage. Well I had also been chasing a small vibration so I figured I would look the axles over. They were brand new three months ago, but I wanted to look anyway. I can move the joint at the transmission a bit on both sides. Is there an acceptable amount of play or are the bearings in the transmission worn? I think it is allowing enough "whip" in the axles to explain my vibration. Just thought I would see if anyone could tell me if this was normal or if the bearings are going to need replaced?

[Nerd Racing]

Are your axle seals leaking? If they are leaking badly it could mean bad diff bearings. If they aren't leaking the bearings are usually ok.

[GenevaDirt]

in and out is not a big deal unless it is a lot....so long as they are staying in and not leaking they are fine. If you can move them up and down and your seals are leaking....then you may have bearing problems. Just replaced a tranny because of the bearing issue.

[kartracer46]

If you can move them up and down and your seals are leaking....then you may have bearing problems. Just replaced a tranny because of the bearing issue.

It was the up and down movement that concerned me, and the seals are leaking a bit. So this trans I put in a few months ago now probably needs diff bearings replaced. I guess the next step is to ask how difficult are they to replace? If I recall correctly you can purchase the bearings and seals at a parts store. I have to work on moving today, so maybe tomorrow I will investigate further.

Thank ya'll for the input.