2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Rear axle seal

[SHobbs]

Ok thanks to Big Papa I got the help on the transmission seal. Now I am looking for info on what to expect when I change the axle seal. I have never had to change one of these and I am wondering what all needs to come off.



Thanks, Scott

 

[n7gxz]

Scott,



Which seal is leaking, pinion or hub?



Kevin

 

[SHobbs]

Kevin,



Hub seal is leaking.

 

[BadDNA]

You'll need to remove the wheel obviously, brake drum, axle, and hub. The hub nut takes a 2-9/16" socket to remove. You'll need a new hub seal obviously, axle seal (it's a stamped metal seal that goes between the axle and hub), and a new retaining tab and hub nut (recommended not to reuse the nut). If you jack the end you're working on up high enough you shouldn't have to replace much or any gear oil. Don't forget to repack the bearings while you've got them out either.

 

[SHobbs]

Bad DNA,



Thank you sir. What about the brakes will they need to come off too? I am going to do a brake job on both sides as well as the GMC cylinder install anyway but was wondering about it.

 

[BadDNA]

Just the drum has to come off, but if you're planning on doing a brake job this is a great time to do it.

 

[rrausch]

I've done this twice to my '95, and it's about time to do it again.



The first time I tried to pull the drum, it was rusted/stuck onto the axle, so following a friend's advice, I jacked both rear wheels off the ground, removed the wheel/tires, then got in the truck, started it up, put it in drive, accellerated to about 25 and hit the brakes. My friend said that would loosen the rear drums.



He sure was right--I saw one of them fly out the garage door at about 20 mph, while the other one banged into various objects sitting on the side of the garage! (He forgot to tell me the part about putting a couple of lug nuts back onto each side so the drums wouldn't fly off!) Luckily it wasn't my garage!

 

[ph]

Hey badDNA,

When you say to repack the bearings is that like repacking as a 2 wd front axle bearing or trailer wheel bearing would be repacked? If so, does it make any difference the kind of grease? Multi-purpose NLGI grade 2 EP, OK? TIA, ph

 

[BadDNA]

Yup, same thing, they're just tapered roller bearings.