2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Front axel seals replacement

[BRI7070]

I replaced my balljoints, not to bad of a job, but the passenger side seal is leaking. I lost my haynes manuel and need to know how to replace the outter seal.



what can you tell me???



Thank you

brian

 

[JDKammin]

You can get to it thru your vacuum disconnect fork opening on the back side of the axle. I installed a new seal in the neighbors truck, using a piece of threaded rod and one of the race driver adapters from a kit I have. You can buy an installer, but think they are around $150. I would check with EMS Offroad about their double lip seal. Looks like a better setup.

 

[DieselDoghouse]

What was posted above gives you the plan. In addition I would suggest:

1. wet the new seal face (the skirt) with lube before installing the axle shaft (so you are less likely to scuff them)

2. clean the axle tube as much as you can after installing the seal/ before axle install - the oil resident in the tube will maje you think your seal replacement failed when it didn't

3. If you're doing ball joints consider replacing hubs as well?? just get everything shiny new all at one time…

 

[ttbird]

How long since you replaced the axle has it been leaking? I've done the axle removal and had they leak slightly for a week or two afterwards. But they stopped after the seal settled in again, might give them a little time and see if they stop. Hopefully you'll see results. Quad 4X4 sells an installation tool, also. Tom

 

[Curious Dave]

I just did my seal on that side the other day. I did some heavy duty ball joints as well as re-pack the bearings.

I made a tool from stuff at the local ACE Hardware for the seal install. I bought a 3' chunk of 1/2" all thread... a couple of nuts, a couple of washers and a 2" PVC domed cap. I had a board at home that I cut an 8" square out of. I drilled a hole in the center of the board and ran the all thread thru it, and down the axle tube. Thru the CAD system location I installed the seal, the PVC cap (with a 9/16" hole in the center, dome towards the seal), washer and nut. Then I put a washer and nut on the opposite end and tightened it all up. The seal didn't seat completely the first time. I had to move the cap around and the board around as well. It took a little bit of time but I got the seal all worked in and seated with no damage.

Had I mounted the board to the knuckle it might have gome more smoothly. But I kinda doubt it. I spent maybe 20 minutes putting the jig together and installing the seal. Not to bad of a home made tool for just a few bucks.