Front axle seal leaking - what axle is it?

[FATCAT]

Notice that my front passenger side axle seal is leaking and need to know what axle is on the front end of my '97 2500 CTD.

I don't have my truck with me today so I can't go out and check before I order the seal.



Is it a Dana 70 or 60? I know I have a Dana 80 on the rear end.



What do you guys with '97 have on the front end?



Thanks in advanced.



PS. Is it OK to drive the truck even if I'm not in 4-wheel drive, or will I cause damage to the axle if it is leaking?

 

[LSMITH]

You have a Dana 60 in the front. You can continue to drive it, but make sure it does not get overly low on oil. If you have not done the seals in the front axle hang on, it SUCKS!!! I will pay to have mine done again if it starts leaking. Make sure you do not let it get low on oil or you will burn up the seal on the other side and then you will be doing both sides. Hope this helps.

 

[FATCAT]

Thanks LSMITH - Another question

Thanks for the info and the advise. Now for another dumb question. The front axle uses just regular 85/90 weight gear oil right? Nothing special like the 5-speed trans needs.

 

[LSMITH]

You are correct, I filled mine with 75W90 Mobil 1 synthetic. I think it calls for a 75W90 rather than a 85-90.

 

[illflem]

Here's how to do it http://dieselpowerman.tripod.com/Front Axle Tech/Front Axle Tech.htm



If you don't want to do it yourself I wouldn't blame you. Most dealers charge $150- 175, well worth it.

 

[FATCAT]

I think I'll go to the dealer

Illflem, thanks for the post and the site of how to do the axle seal fix ... what a nightmare! Especially the need for a "special" tool to seat the seal. Looks like another bad design from D/C. But I guess after 131,000 miles, some seals will eventually go.



Wonder if both passenger and driver sides should be done at the same time.



Thanks again.

 

[TJ_Powers]

FATCAT - I just had mine done by a friend. We used the link Axle Tech link and followed the directions, except we cut two washers to use as a seal puller instead of the socket and went through the 4WD actuator module.



I will try to find the part number if you still need it.



Ted

1997 3500