Both of my rear axle seals are leaking and need to be replaced. I have been told it is pretty easy to do, but I wanted to ask here before diving in.

Has anyone done this job?

How difficult is it to do?

Can it be done at home, or does it require special tools to do it?

Thanks for any help.

Steve

 

On a scale of 1-10, I rate it a 4. If you can do the brakes, the axle seals are just a few more simple screws. You might as well do both sides as it's just one more wheel, rotor, and caliper and another $5 seal.

Remove the wheel, brake caliper, and rotor. You don't need to break the lines open, just hang the caliper out of the way (NOT by the hose) (You may need to manually back-off the parking brake if there is a ridge of rust holding it on)

Remove the diff cover and drain the oil. (I like to do that first to give it a chance to drain while I remove the wheels and brakes)

Remove the cross-pin retainer bolt.

Remove the cross-pin.

Push the axle shafts in TOWARDS the center.

Remove the c-clip on the end of the axle.

Slide the axle out.

Replace the seal. I like to use a seal puller to get the old one out.... it's a $7 tool and makes the job MUCH easier. I've used a screwdriver and pliers, but it can easily gouge the axle housing.

Reverse the procedure. Don't forget to refill the diff with the proper amount of lube, and if you have a limited slip, don't forget to add the friction modifier to it as well.

Hope that helps!

-Joe

 

GIJoeCam is correct, good luck

 

I rate it a "1"!!!

Drive to local "dependable" shop.

Tell them what to do.

Pay money.

Drive home.

Took me all of an hour and even was able to work in an oil change and tire rotation!!!

Good luck!!

 

I don't pay for anything to be done, since most of the idiots you pay don't know what the hell they are doing.


I just did the brakes...........so I guess I can do this..........LOL.

Doesn't sound too difficult to do, and I get a rear diff. fluid change out of it too.

I'll tear into it this weekend........then all of my work will be done for the winter.

Steve

 

i own a 92 ford f150 xlt i recently lost the bearings in the rear end and the seals ultimately resulting in replacing the rear end myself. its pretty easy to do i found that if you take the bed off the truck it makes the job twenty times easier.

 

why take off the bed? the axle is on the bottem and the bed on top. a jack and jackstands will work and laeve the axle plenty accessible.

 

IF you don't mind sitting on the floor all day. Those of us that are 'less than limber' and can do so can see why it could be useful to pull the bed. It's only 6 more bolts and two plugs.... IF they're willing to come out though.

-Joe

 

ok well i guess i never thought of that. im 16 and dont mind get on the ground and gettin dirty