speedi sleeves?

Anybody ever use Speedi Sleeves to cover/repair worn seal areas on axle shafts, spindles, etc.? Just wondering how well they work.

 

A few opinions in here, I'm sure:http://www.earlycj5.com/forums/search.php?searchid=1087057

 

I have used them in the past. They work well. The only problem with them is that they are expensive. It is often just as cheap to replace the part than to sleeve it.

 

I used one on the rear output shaft. Worked as advertised, but I don't have many miles on it yet.:v6:

 

Used one on my D18 output side. Mine was grooved and it seemed to work well.

 

Yup, me too.
A good trick is to fill the groove if very deep with something like body filler, epoxy, etc., sand it smooth with the seal surface, then put the sleeve on over the top. This keeps the sleeve from "sinking" into the groove creating the same problem that was originally there. Just adds a little support in that area....

 

So, are these things available at a FLAPS, or do I need to go to a bearing supply house and pay way too much for them? I know they're expensive, but much cheaper than new D30 spindles and inner axle shafts.

 

I've found they tend to be cheaper at flaps in my area but still expensive. Might try out Rockauto.com or similar sites. Sometimes they are cheaper IF you have the dimensions. Should be able to find some good used axle shaft replacements unless they are custom for almost or cheaper than the speedi sleeves.

 

Eh, by the time I factor in the time and hassle involved in searching for good used ones, it's cheaper to me in the long run to just go buy the dang sleeves and be done with it. Denver's a BIG area, it could take a couple of days off and who knows how much gas to search around for them. One of the bigger Jeep salvage places is in Colorado Springs and they don't have any, I already called. The parts aren't that bad, and this Jeep ain't gonna get rode hard. If I ever get it done. mehh

 

Did you try contacting R&P, PartsMike, John at Border Parts, etc.? They may have what you need for a reasonable price. I can't remember exactly what you need (I'm old and it's been a while since I've read that post) but worth an e-mail...

 

I'm cleaning up a '72-'75 D30 front axle to put under my '56. The seal surfaces on both inner axle shafts and the hub seal surfaces of both spindles are all just a little rough, even after polishing on a lathe with emery tape. So, I was interested in these. NAPA priced the sleeves for the hub seals at either $70 or $75 apiece . I think I can live with a little bit of seepage.

Like I say, this ol' Jeep ain't gonna see any hard use or lots of miles. I'll be like the old geezer down the street with the Model A Ford that putts around on the weekends, except mine will be a CJ5. And replacing these parts later on if necessary won't be no thang, not like they're R&P gears.