Unlocking the Secrets of Disassembling AMC 20 Rear Shafts

Unlocking the Secrets of Disassembling AMC 20 Rear Shafts

The AMC 20 rear axle is a rugged and reliable part of many classic Jeep models, providing durability and strength for off-road enthusiasts. However, for those who enjoy working on their vehicles, knowing how to disassemble and rebuild the AMC 20 rear shafts can save time and money. In this article, we will explore the process of disassembling AMC 20 rear shafts, troubleshooting tips, and essential advice for ensuring that everything goes smoothly. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced mechanic, this guide will help you unlock the secrets of working with the AMC 20 rear axle system.

What is the AMC 20 Rear Shaft?

The AMC 20 rear axle is a full-floating rear axle found in several Jeep vehicles, including the CJ5, CJ7, and some early Wagoneer models. It is designed to provide strength and reliability in off-road situations, featuring a differential, axle shafts, and a casing that holds the entire assembly together. Although this axle has a solid reputation for toughness, the axle shafts can be a challenge to disassemble if you don’t follow the proper procedure.

Knowing how to safely disassemble the AMC 20 rear shafts is a valuable skill, particularly if you’re dealing with worn-out components, need to replace the bearings, or want to upgrade your axle setup for better performance. In the following steps, we will guide you through the disassembly process.

Step-by-Step Process of Disassembling AMC 20 Rear Shafts

1. Prepare the Necessary Tools and Safety Gear

Before you begin disassembling the AMC 20 rear shafts, it’s important to gather all the tools and safety equipment you’ll need. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Jack and jack stands (to safely lift the vehicle)
• Socket set (including deep sockets)
• Wrenches
• Torque wrench
• Brake cleaner or degreaser
• Rubber mallet
• Safety goggles and gloves

Ensure that the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before proceeding with the disassembly. If you are working on a lifted vehicle or one with a lot of rust, it may be beneficial to have penetrating oil handy to loosen stubborn bolts.

2. Remove the Rear Axle Assembly from the Vehicle

The first step in disassembling the AMC 20 rear shafts is removing the entire axle assembly from the vehicle. This involves disconnecting the axle from the differential, driveshaft, and any suspension components. Follow these steps:

• Jack up the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the wheels and tires.
• Disconnect the driveshaft from the differential using a wrench to unbolt the u-joint.
• Disconnect any suspension components that may be in the way, such as sway bar links or shock absorbers.
• Remove the bolts securing the axle housing to the differential.

At this point, you should be able to slide the axle out from under the vehicle. Take care not to damage the brake lines or other sensitive parts during this process.

3. Disassemble the Differential and Remove the Axle Shafts

Once the axle assembly is removed, it’s time to disassemble the differential to access the AMC 20 rear shafts. This process requires some mechanical expertise, as you’ll be working with internal gears and seals. Follow these steps:

• Drain the differential fluid to avoid spills.
• Unbolt the differential cover and remove it, exposing the gears inside.
• Mark the orientation of the carrier and ring gear to ensure proper reassembly.
• Remove the carrier bearings by carefully pressing them out using a bearing puller or a hammer and block of wood.
• Unbolt the differential carrier from the axle housing and remove it from the housing.
• Pull the axle shafts out from the housing.

At this point, you should have successfully removed the AMC 20 axle shafts from the housing. Make sure to inspect the shafts for any signs of wear or damage, as replacing worn-out parts can significantly improve the performance of your axle.

4. Inspect the Components

Once the axle shafts are removed, it’s a good idea to thoroughly inspect the components for signs of wear or damage. Pay particular attention to the following:

• Axle shafts: Look for cracks, deep gouges, or any deformation in the shafts.
• Bearings: Inspect the carrier bearings and wheel bearings for wear or damage.
• Seals: Check the axle seals for leaks or cracking.
• Gears: Inspect the ring and pinion gears for excessive wear or chipped teeth.

If any of these components are damaged or worn, you may need to replace them before reassembling the axle. Replacing seals, bearings, or gears is often more cost-effective than dealing with an axle failure down the road.

5. Reassemble the AMC 20 Rear Axle

After you’ve completed the inspection and replaced any worn components, it’s time to reassemble the AMC 20 rear axle. Follow these steps to ensure everything is put back together correctly:

• Start by reinstalling the axle shafts into the housing.
• Install the differential carrier back into the housing and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Press in any new bearings and seals before reassembling the differential gears.
• Reinstall the differential cover and refill the housing with fresh gear oil.
• Reattach any suspension components that were disconnected earlier.
• Reinstall the driveshaft and torque the bolts appropriately.
• Finally, reinstall the wheels and tires.

Before lowering the vehicle, double-check all bolts for proper torque and ensure that everything is reassembled correctly. Once you are confident in the reassembly, lower the vehicle back to the ground.

Troubleshooting Tips for Disassembling AMC 20 Rear Shafts

While disassembling the AMC 20 rear shafts can be a straightforward process, there are a few potential issues that could arise. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

• Stubborn bolts: If you’re having trouble removing bolts or nuts, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before attempting to remove them again. A breaker bar can also help with extra leverage.
• Damaged axle shafts: If the axle shafts are cracked or severely worn, it’s best to replace them with new or refurbished shafts to avoid future failures.
• Excessive noise after reassembly: If you experience strange noises after reassembling the axle, double-check the gear backlash and ensure the bearings are properly seated. A misaligned ring and pinion gear could lead to noise or even damage over time.
• Leaking seals: If you notice leaks after reassembly, it could indicate that the axle seals were not properly installed or that the seals are damaged. Replace the seals and ensure a proper fit.

Conclusion

Disassembling and maintaining the AMC 20 rear shafts is a critical skill for Jeep enthusiasts and anyone looking to keep their vehicle in top condition. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently disassemble, inspect, and reassemble the rear shafts, ensuring that your AMC 20 axle performs reliably for years to come.

Remember, while this process can be done at home with the right tools, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure or encounter any issues beyond your skill level. With the right preparation, knowledge, and patience, disassembling the AMC 20 rear shafts will become an achievable task, helping you enjoy your Jeep on the trails with peace of mind.

For further assistance with AMC 20 axle systems, check out this detailed guide to learn more about the technical specifications and upgrades for your vehicle’s rear axle.

Additionally, if you’re looking for more information on Jeep modifications, head over to this external resource to discover the latest tips and tricks for upgrading your off-road machine.

This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by TheFixitLab Team