Welding on a 9" Differential

Chaplain · #1 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 05:59 AM

I did a search and couldn't find anything. My question is, is there any special procedure for welding on a differential that is off the car? It seems I read or saw one time that it is possible for an arc to jump inside of an assembly, doing damage to a bearing or gear mating surface etc. I want to weld on the brake line tabs and was wondering if I need to dis-assemble the entire rear end first.
Thank you in advance for any advice.

Clois Harlan · #2 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 06:01 AM

I have seen it done both ways. Mine was welded without disassembly and that was two years ago and I have not had any issues with the rear end housing or bearings.

Clois

Silverback51 · #3 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 06:06 AM

Just make sure you have a real good attach point for your ground and you will be fine.

trularin · #4 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 06:54 AM

Grind a spot for the ground before you weld or the arc will find it's path of least resistance.

Roush #1 · #5 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 07:01 AM

Chaplain,
All the previous comments are good ones.
One thing that hasn't been mentioned is not to weld too much at one time. Allow the metal to cool to avoid twisting the axle housing.
Jody

Shell Valley · #6 (**permalink**) 06-25-2008, 07:08 AM

If you are welding on the housing, attach your ground to the housing - NOT the axle flange. I've seen a lot of guys attach the ground to the axle flange because it is an easy spot to get to but doing this will ruin your bearings.
I also very much agree on going slow and allow the metal to cool to avoid warping the housing.

Just my $0.02

Dana