Does anyone have experience with replacing the factory two piece rear axles with aftermarket one piece shafts, and if so, has anyone considered eliminating the inner seals, so that the axle bearings can lube with gear oil? With dual seals, one in the housing and one on the shaft, there is no lube to the bearings, only grease that you pack in there when new, and they cannot be re-packed after deep sand, or deep water crossings. The only way to re-pack these bearings is to grind (or cut) the retainer collars off, and probably ruin the bearing in the process, then remove the bearing and re-pack it. You could smear a bit of grease on the rollers, but CANNOT re-pack the bearing on the axle. New collars are only available with new bearings, and all four seals must also be replaced.
This is a very costly process, and it needs to be done as a normal maintenance item.
I'm looking for realistic alternative suggestions. Thanks!

 

Good day eh?
Coy... Let me state up front I know nothing about the type of axle you're talking about but would it be possible to drill and tap your axle housing near the bearing in question and install a grease fitting? I'm sure others on this site DO know about your axle and may poo-poo my idea but it MAY get grease to where you want it. Comments guys and gals?????
Peter