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Axle Turns in Neutral

Posted: Thu Feb 18, 2021 2:58 pm
by delta31
We have the rear drivers side tire and rim remove and the axle is blocked up while waiting for a new tire to be installed. We started the engine to charge the batteries a little.
We noticed that the with the engine running and the transmission in neutral, the the axles/drum without the wheel is turning very slowly on it own. Is that normal?
Why does it do that? Thanks

Re: Axle Turns in Neutral

Posted: Thu Feb 18, 2021 10:56 pm
by Cal_Gary
No cause for alarm-all the components starting with the tranny have a tendency to turn a bit in neutral if there's no resistance.
Gary

Re: Axle Turns in Neutral

Posted: Mon Feb 22, 2021 5:59 am
by sturmtyger380
I have seen this as well, and was able to put my hand on the wheel and it stopped turning. If there was a real gear engagement you would not be able to hold it.

Re: Axle Turns in Neutral

Posted: Tue Feb 23, 2021 10:29 am
by signsup
You wanna really freak out? Put your Ford Model T up on jack stands and try to find a true neutral. One rear wheel turns clockwise and the other turns counter clockwise. I was picturing the car driving itself in circles. But, yes, a little resistance and all stops without bogging down the engine. Occasionally it will creep the car, it is called Model T crawl and a good reason to never stand in front of one when idling. Don't think that's the case with a large truck.