Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra. Service manual — part 1323

Fig. 12: Identifying Smears
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Smearing of metal due to slippage. Slippage can be caused by poor fits, lack of lubrication,
overheating, overloads or handling damage. Replace the bearing. Clean all the related parts.
Check for proper fit and lubrication.

FRONT DRIVE AXLE BEARING WEAR (TAPERED)

Tapered Roller Bearing Diagnosis

Consider the following factors when diagnosing bearing condition:

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

2008 Driveline/Axle Front Drive Axle - Cab & Chassis Sierra, Cab & Chassis Silverado, Sierra & Silverado

General condition of all parts during disassembly and inspection.

Classify the failure with the aid of the illustrations.

Determine the cause.

Make all repairs following recommended procedures.

Abrasive Roller Wear

Fig. 13: Identifying Abrasive Roller Wear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Pattern on the races and the rollers caused by fine abrasives. Clean all of the parts and the
housings. Check the seals and the bearings. Replace any leaky, rough, or noisy bearings.

Abrasive Step Wear

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

2008 Driveline/Axle Front Drive Axle - Cab & Chassis Sierra, Cab & Chassis Silverado, Sierra & Silverado

Fig. 14: Identifying Abrasive Step Wear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Pattern on the roller ends caused by fine abrasives. Clean all of the parts and the housings. Check
the seals and the bearings. Replace any leaky, rough, or noisy bearings.

Galling

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

2008 Driveline/Axle Front Drive Axle - Cab & Chassis Sierra, Cab & Chassis Silverado, Sierra & Silverado

Fig. 15: Identifying Galling
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Metal smears on the roller ends due to overheating, lubricant failure, or lubricant overload.
Replace the bearing. Check the seals. Check for proper lubrication.

Etching

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

2008 Driveline/Axle Front Drive Axle - Cab & Chassis Sierra, Cab & Chassis Silverado, Sierra & Silverado