Author Topic: Cleaning third member...  (Read 2516 times)

Offline jntmjt1

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Cleaning third member...
« on: March 22, 2010, 10:05:41 PM »
Hello,

I have a used 9 inch third member that I'm going to install in my car.  It is in good shape and does not require disassembly, so... is it okay to take this greasy thing to the car wash and work it over with a high pressure spray of soapy water, or will that screw up the bearings?  Any suggestions on getting it clean without taking it apart?

Thanks for your help,
John Thomas

Offline Bill Cabaniss

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Re: Cleaning third member...
« Reply #1 on: March 23, 2010, 11:38:18 AM »
John, the few that I have done, I did exactly what you are suggesting. If the rear end is fully assembled you will only need to seal the vent tube opening, which is on top of the housing on the drivers side axle tube. I would not force water pressure at the axle seal area or the pinion seal area but you should be able to clean the housing and pumpkin area just fine like you were wanting to. Bill.
Highland green 68 GT fastback/concours driven since 2000. 8f02j - 1-23-68
raven black 66 coupe/concours driven since 1991.6f07c- 5-14-66
rangoon red 65 Mustang JR. go-cart serial#02. not driven much.
Still drive them to the nationals/they do clean up! 
Gold card judge for 67-68 concours class.

Offline jntmjt1

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Re: Cleaning third member...
« Reply #2 on: March 23, 2010, 06:50:28 PM »
John, the few that I have done, I did exactly what you are suggesting. If the rear end is fully assembled you will only need to seal the vent tube opening, which is on top of the housing on the drivers side axle tube. I would not force water pressure at the axle seal area or the pinion seal area but you should be able to clean the housing and pumpkin area just fine like you were wanting to. Bill.

Bill,

I think we are different wavelengths.  I'm talking about cleaning the pumkin only, removed from the axle housing.

Thanks though,
John Thomas

Offline rmaginnis

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    • December 2010
Re: Cleaning third member...
« Reply #3 on: March 24, 2010, 01:59:15 AM »
Hello,

I have a used 9 inch third member that I'm going to install in my car.  It is in good shape and does not require disassembly, so... is it okay to take this greasy thing to the car wash and work it over with a high pressure spray of soapy water, or will that screw up the bearings?  Any suggestions on getting it clean without taking it apart?

Thanks for your help,
John Thomas
I would not hose it down with high pressure. Use some engine degreaser on the exterior and try to avoid 'contaminating' the inside (gears, bearings) with crud from the outside. Use lots of rags and some brake cleaner or lacquer thinner if you really want to go after the grease.  You will likely need to repoint it redoxide after using solvents.
Rick

Rick Maginnis
April, '70 Dearborn Boss 302
0F02G18xxxx

Offline Bill Cabaniss

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Re: Cleaning third member...
« Reply #4 on: March 24, 2010, 08:30:10 AM »
Sorry John, I am visiting this web site way too early in the morning, I will try to remedy that. Rick is giving you better advise. Thanks for waking me up!! Bill.
Highland green 68 GT fastback/concours driven since 2000. 8f02j - 1-23-68
raven black 66 coupe/concours driven since 1991.6f07c- 5-14-66
rangoon red 65 Mustang JR. go-cart serial#02. not driven much.
Still drive them to the nationals/they do clean up! 
Gold card judge for 67-68 concours class.