2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Dana 60 front axle seals

[JacobsD]

Anyone do the front axle seals on the Dodge Dana 60? I heard you have to take the carrier out. One of mine has started leaking so I might as well do both. Pointers, tips, tricks, or even horror stories are appreciated



Thanks

 

[Batphreak]

If you do a search there are plenty of threads here talking about it. Plus, check out quad4x4.com for a bit of advice and what looks like a good kit (If I did it again I think I'd get their stuff with the install tools). For the driver's side, yes you do need to drop the carrier, it really isn't that bad a small pry bar takes it out real easily, have a friend pry and you catch. Then to put it back in have one hold it up while the other gives it a few whacks with a good dead-blow plastic mallet. Just make sure not to mix up the bearing caps (side and direction) and the bearing races. Make sure to clean out the axle tubes real good with solvent, even the water hose before putting the seals in. It's a fun afternoon job really.

 

[San Felipe Bob]

yup

Buy 2 sets of seals.

They are a PITA to install and you may ruin one before you figure it out like I did.

Good thing Quad 4x4 suggested buying 2 sets.

Yes I used the special seal install tools from Quad 4x4.

I still had trouble.

Take your time!

AND

You can't be too clean.

be sure to clean the tubes out real good!

I used a brush on a long piece of all thead and my drill motor.

8 cans of brake clean for each tube.

Don't forget to seal off the tube at the carrier housing before cleaning.

Also it's a very good idea to clean one side at a time.

Also a good idea to jack up the opposite side (please use a jack stand).

That way all the muck runs out... .



Very messy job... ... :{



SFB

 

[SRath]

There is a new (to me anyway) 2-piece style of seal out that actually works like a bearing. The inside spins and the outside remains stationary.



I bought a set for my K30, but have not done the gear change I plan or the installation of the seals yet. I'm rebuilding the entire front axle, and compared these Dodge CAD Dana 60's, BOY are real kingpin/lockout/greaseable&replaceable wheel bearing/leaf spring Dana 60's nice! Only DC could screw one up this Dodge-bad...



Anyway, you might want to check into those new style seals. Don't see why it should be any different part number for the Dodge (did I really just say that?!) Personally, I like the idea of not wearing a seal-groove into my axle shafts and these are supposed to seal better and longer.

 

[JacobsD]

Thanks for the tips. I'll check out Quad 4x4 for their installation tools. I think my dad has them but I'm not sure.



I like doing axle and suspention work anyways so I'll have a good tip.



SRath: I hear you on the older Chevy kingpin axles. I wouldn't mind swapping one into my Dodge at some point, Too bad theres those big huge mounts on the Dodge.