Check your pillow block

dr deuce · Post by **dr deuce** » Thu Apr 17, 2008 7:53 pm

I was doing my annual spring maintenance tonight and was checking the level in the forward differential. As you know this is not the easiest thing to do. I remembered from last year that I had a U-joint on the back of the pillow block that would eventually have to be replaced so I gave it a wiggle. Yes it still moved the same amount, but to my surprise, so did the pillow block! The bolts had backed out and some of the split lock washers had broken. Sooo I guess SOP for me will be to check the pillow block bolts when greasing or checking the forward diff. I can't imagine what would happen it she came loose.....

Chappers · Post by **Chappers** » Fri Apr 18, 2008 3:12 pm

This happened to me last year and the pillow block came away from the axle on our way back from a show, the noise from underneath was awfull to say the least. I managed to nut and bolt it back on with some spares to get me home,Was lucky it hadn't damaged much,only the paint and a few millimeters of thread.

It's Very important to check this now

I should have let people know, sorry

regards

Steve

Hammerhead · Post by **Hammerhead** » Fri Apr 18, 2008 9:38 pm

Thanks for the tip guys!!

I'm actually giving "Nellie" a very thorough "going-over" in preparation for the Spring/Summer driving season right now and honestly had not thought of that! And I thought the brakes were the biggest pain in the A** on these big, beautiful trucks.

oldreliable9_47 · Post by **oldreliable9_47** » Sun Apr 20, 2008 5:37 pm

hmmm see this is why I enjoy this site so durn much. I am going over my truck this weekend and next and never thought to lay my hand on the pillow block and give it a check.

Started it up and backed her out for a spin today...then I was reminded of the current gas prices when I passed one