2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Leaking 4x4 axle seals - need advice

[GCrowl]

I damaged my front axle seals when I pulled the axle shafts during a brake rotor replacement. My repair manual doesn't seem to give the required detail about how to R&R these things. Does anyone have advice on how to go about the replacement. I can't remember, but it seems like they were deep inside the axle housing. Is there a trick to avoid damaging the new seals when I re-install the axles? (The truck is a 1995 2500). Thanks.



A sidenote: I have been running the same synthetic oil in the differential for 270,000 miles - it still looks clean and has no bad odors. Is there a limit to the mileage one can get from this stuff?

 

[**ICEMAN**]

here,,this will help you out

http://dieselpowerman.tripod.com/Front Axle Tech/Front Axle Tech.htm



i made the seal tool like shown in the link above .

i have had my axles out a few times on my 94 and would usually get a little drip of gear oil that would eventually seal itself except for the last time the leak didn't go away. while you are in there go ahead and replace both sides even if only one is leaking.



usually a little lube on the shaft when you slide it in will help :-laf

to prevent damaging the seal

 

[GCrowl]

Thanks a bunch for the link. I had a feeling the differential had to be removed, but wanted to make sure before i created a lot of unneccesary work for myself. Big help - thanks again.

 

[Driftwood Ram]

I was told be my local dealer when I had the truck in for a oil change that the seal was "damaged" The axle had been pulled to do ball joints at a brake shop. Truth of the matter was some fluid came out of the diff. into the axle housing and all I had to do was wait until it all worked out. "Leak" fixed.