Dana 60 Axle Tube Question?

I would think it should be welded, if its leaking it could spin under a launch, mine are welded and it doesnt leak.

Picture,they started to weld the hole shut. So now I will bore it outthen fix the leak.
Seriously------------ can you buy ANYTHING thats done right????

#2

OH, i see

Where did that beauty come from?

That hole is supposed to be welded up...the housing to the tube....appears the tubes may be welded also.....just smear a tad bit of silicone and call it a day.....glad I don't have to please you.

I recently built a Dana 60 for my Ramcharger and I started by welding the tubes to the carrier housing with 7018 rod, then the perches to the tubes(again with 7018) and finally a 4X4 shop jig welded the new ends to the tubes with "Dual Shield MIG". I have never had leaks from the case spreader holes, but have had leaks from the tubes on an OEM Dana in the old race car ('68 Coronet). I have always done my Dana work without a case spreader, but have always been concerned when putting the carrier back in (with the BFH) about damaging the new bearings. I recently found an OTC case spreader on CL for $150.00 and snapped it up. I think your best move is to clean the holes with a small wire wheel and plug them with silicone, then if you need to service the rear end it would be easy to pull the plug and attach the spreader.

Do you have a vent on the housing? Sounds like its building preasure. Make sure the right amount of oil.

I think, as others, if you vent the housing (as it should be), and apply some silicone in the holes it shouldn't leak. I have a vent, and mine doesn't leak without silicone. You can always pull out the silicone if you need to use a case spreader.