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Yes, I searched but if I found the answer I didn't understand it.<P>Disclaimer: I am only starting to learn about suspensions in general.<P>I think I understand the purpose of the front axles (half shafts?). I may be getting them replaced this week (original, over 170K miles and clicking like crazy)<P>The mechanic had mentioned that there were no rear axles to replace on my MX3 because it is front-wheel drive. <P>I looked at the on-line shop manual. On page M-11 there is listed a rear axle.<P>I won't be able to talk to that mechanic until later in the week and I would like to go back with some sort of basic understanding of this. There obviously is a rear axle. <P>Anybody give me a simple explanation on the purpose of the rear axle and in what circumstance it would be replaced?<P>Thanks in advance.<p>[ October 15, 2002: Message edited by: emex three jr. ]

The rear axle is called an I beam. It is used to hold the spindles and brakes. The only time it would need to be replaced is if somehow you crashed and bent it. That help? If you need more info let me know.

Jarid,<P>You da the man!<P>That explained things perfectly for me. I appreciate it!

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by emex three jr.:<BR><STRONG>Jarid,<P>You da the man!<P>That explained things perfectly for me. I appreciate it!</STRONG><HR></BLOCKQUOTE><BR> U got it man..Just keep an eye on the rubber bushings that connect the spindle to the arms and such..They can get weathered and crack. I think that Corksport sells replacement poly bushings but I can be mistaken.

Actually, I-beams were only used on early Ford Rangers, F-150's, F-250's, and several other Ford vehicles. They were called that because they resembled beams in the shape of an I.

Oh yea...isnt it mono beam?

you should also watch out for the boots condition(i think thats what they are called) mine was torn and water got in the axle shaft and my right side axle rod is worn so my car is pretty shitty ride right now"

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by sureshiit:<BR><STRONG>you should also watch out for the boots condition(i think thats what they are called) mine was torn and water got in the axle shaft and my right side axle rod is worn so my car is pretty shitty ride right now" </STRONG><HR></BLOCKQUOTE><BR> There aren't any boots on the rear axle bro.