The axle shaft serves two combined function's, it supports the weight of the vehicle and delivers torque to move it.
The 2009 model year vehicles can vary in their rear axle configurations depending on the make and model. Generally, many light-duty trucks and SUVs from that year feature a semi-floating rear axle, while heavier-duty trucks may have a full-floating rear axle. It's essential to refer to the specific vehicle's specifications or service manual for accurate information on the rear axle type.
Front: Dana model 44 full-floating solid axle. Multi-leaf special springs. Standard axle ratio 2.73:1 Rear: AMC semi-floating solid axle. Multi-leaf special springs. Standard axle ratio 2.73:1
in semifloating axle vehicle carriers all weight of axle where as in fully floating vehicle does not carry any weight on vehicle.
It is semi floating rear axel
1. Lighter in weight 2. Economy of parts 3. Less expense to manufacture
A semi-floater axle is one that all the vehicals weight and rotational torque are placed on the outside bearing and axle. A full-floater axle has a separate bearing assembly on the end of the axle housing to support the weight of the vehical and rotational torque is the only load on the axle shaft. A full floating axle is easy to spot because the bearings protrude through the center of the wheel.
In a semi-floating rear axle, the bearing is typically secured on the axle shaft using a snap ring or circlip that fits into a groove machined on the shaft. This design ensures that the bearing remains in place while allowing the axle to rotate freely. Additionally, the bearing may be housed within a bearing retainer or cap that further stabilizes it and provides support against lateral loads. This setup is crucial for maintaining proper alignment and function of the axle assembly.
In a full-floating axle, the axle bearing is placed on the outside of the axle housing. This places all the vehicle weight on the axle housing and none on the axle itself. This is important for the front axle which is generally a short shaft. In the semi-floating axle, the axle bearing is placed in the axle housing and the axle carries some of the load of the vehicle. The main advantage of the semi-floating is that it is simpler (i.e. cheaper). Courtesey of: http://www.m38a1.ca/axles.html Sourced by: Paul Henderson, Donegal, Ireland.
Depending on the market and the model, full floating rear axles started appearing about 1976 - in the 45 series and others. Most rear axles in North America were semi-floating until about 1992, when the 80 series all came with full floating axles and rear disc brakes. There are far too many market and axle possibilities to make a blanket statement about what may or may not have been equipped with full floating axles and when.
According to Haynes the 1995 has a hypoid, semi-floating type and some have the optional locking limited-slip axle. The identification and manufacturers codes are stamped on the right rear axle tube on the front side.
depending uopn the year you can do this but be sure to match your gear ratio to the front differential or better yet replace as a set.
A semi-floater axle is one that all the vehicals weight and rotational torque are placed on the outside bearing and axle. A full-floater axle has a separate bearing assembly on the end of the axle housing to support the weight of the vehical and rotational torque is the only load on the axle shaft. A full floating axle is easy to spot because the bearings protrude through the center of the wheel.