Ok guys, I'm planning on making this a Saturday morning DIY project. The rear axle seals on my '04 F150 have begun leaking, 55000 miles. From what I've read, should be able to remove the rear differential cover and there will be a couple of c-clips or retaining rings of some type holding the axle in place.

Also, I've ordered a new aluminum finned cover from Mag-Hytec. Should be in later this week. I've done some trailer towing (6 - 7k lbs., within spec) and it has really overheated the rear end, burned all the paint off the rear differential cover. Added a transmission temp. gauge a few months ago to make sure the trans. doesn't overheat.

Question - any special tools required in pulling the axles? Any input from someone that has replaced the seals would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

 

No special tools needed, just pull off the wheels and remove the diff cover, then push the axle in to access the c-clips then slide the axles out. You will need the proper tools to pop out the old seals and install the new ones though.

 

yup. easy job. take the cover off and drian all the oil. there is 1 small bolt that holds the center pin in the carrier. you need to take the center pin out so you can push the axles in to access the c-clips. youll know what i mean when you get it apart.

 

I would'nt worry about the towing overheating the rear axle though. Ford uses a very thin coat of cheap paint on the rear axle and it flakes off on almost all the new vehicles. I sanded mine down and repainted it with flat black high temp engine paint and no more peeling! FYI I recently had to make a 200 mile hi speed trip in mine and pulled over at the end and aimed my laser temp thingie at the rear cover and it read 175 degrees which is fine.

 

are your gears are only 308's if they are maybe thats why you burnt your gear oil in your axle..might have change out your gear ratio to be pulling anything big... i learned my 99 f-150 xlt xcab has 308 gears... if you didnt ask for specific gears... thats why your having problems .. im thinking of changin out my gears..

 

no he should either have 3.55s or 3.73s. damn 3.08s! that must suck dude!

 

Yeah, I've got the 3.55s. Not the best set up for towing. I am looking at re-gearing. However, it is a 4x4 so I've got to do the front as well.

 

ya it does suck.. in a way but only thing i really pull is a seadoo or a 4wheeler loaded on a homemade trailer doesnt seem to bother it much.. but i bought the truck used so it came with it.. not my fault they are that high but it sure gets down the road.. hell i thought they were atleast 3.55's till i had my gear oil in the axle changed.. i highly recommend that everyone change thiers... it sure seems to run better after doin that..