How hard is it to change an axle seal? I was just changing my brakes a noticed that my rear passenger seal is leaking. Also, how long can I go before I change it? Thank you a bunch!

 

Depends. Have you been wrenching long? It's just a matter of pulling the rear cover, unlocking the axle, sliding the axle out, replace seal, then put it all back together again.

 

You pumpkin might even be empty!!!

Break down the side its leaking(tires/caliper)
Open up diff
unbolt the pin
push the axle it self into the diff
snag the C-clip out
pull the axle out
change seal
put axle back in
put C-clip back in
bolt pin back in
seal up the axle.

fluid is 75W140, about $16 a qaurt from Motorcraft with a $5 fricton modifier

 

Yeah! Thats what i said.

 

Ive got basic mechanical know how. Never pulled and axle though. My dad used to be a mechanic so he can help me but Im wondering if I should just get it done. Approx. how much would it be to have it done if anybody knows off hand? Thank you again

 

Also I forgot to mention that there was some oil buildup on the edge of the inner pad! Which could pose some safety issues!!

 

If your axles have any noticeable groves close to the outter edge you may need a bearing repair kit. Have you used the truck alot for hauling heavy loads?

 

When I first bought it I hauled some pretty ridiculously heavy loads but not recently. It is an '04 Heritage with 82,000 on it.

 

There are alot of factors when it comes to cost. Basic seal replacement would be about $200.00 at a shop. If the axle has a groove in it where the seal sits, it may not seal and still leak and axle will need to be replaced. Depending on how much oil is on your shoes, it could be cleaned using brake cleaner

 

Thats why I asked, you've got groves on your axle from the axle rubbing. Plan on a bearing repair kit along with the seal. If the groves are very deep the axle may have to be replaced.

 

Mine started leaking once, lasted about a month, then it stopped, hasnt leaked for 3 months, and the diff is full