rovertracks axle

[yt110]

I am replacing the swivel seals in my county and checked the axles after reading Dave_S post and I have grooves worn in the axle were the go through the chrome ball.
Does this mean the axles will be weak and I should replace them?
One has just scuff marks but the other has a groove
Any ideas? Jim

[Bearman]

Most likely they are wear marks from the seals. Unlikely to cause any problems other than maybe a slight leak.

[slug_burner]

Yes a groove will make the axle weaker but one created by a seal will not be deep enough for you to notice any strength change. Perhaps difficulty in sealing for which they makes sleeves, "speedi-sleeve" if that should be your problem.

[uninformed]

Are you talking about oil seals on the shaft? If so why not remove them and let the oil flow through...

[yt110]

Thanks all for your input,I removed the seals from the axle housing when I fitted the thicker axles also the seals from the stub axles,the axles have been rubbing where they pass through the swivel ball,I got an email from Keith and he says they are a close fit in the early balls and would expect a little rubbing, but they should be OK
I did as Dave_S did and made the holes a bit larger.
I had also checked that the flanges that the swivel balls bolt to were in line after the housing was strengthened.
I have now replaced the top bush/pin and lower bearing on each side as a little movement may have added to the rubbing.
I also fitted a couple of shims under the bottom bearing as one had warn a small groove in the housing
Next is to check the end float of the CV's in the drive flanges.
Thanks again Jim.