Rear axle seal

[bronkenn]

Just thought I would offer a little info to those having problems with your axle seals leaking because the surface on your axles are rough or grooved out from the years of use. I just went through this after rebuilding my entire Bronco. Drove it a bit and the right real axle seal was leaking. It had all new parts in it as I rebuilt the complete rear end including clutches and gears with all new seals and bearings. Pulled it apart and the seal was riding on the old area that had been worn down a bit. I have a friend that has a hydraulic shop and asked him if he had a double lip seal. He didn't have one in stock but got his book and found one that was thinner and had a double lip seal. I set the seal in the same depth as the original thicker one and that allowed the seal lip to ride on the nice machined finish. The number/size of the seal is OS-1.37x2.37x0.31TB. It was a lot easier than installing a sleeve and was a pretty cheap fix. Hope this helps someone in the future. Ken

 

[Allen_69]

Good timing. I just pulled my axles last night to replace the bearings. I'll look over the axle tonight. Was this the stock Limited slip you rebuilt? was debating doing something with mine since it's out.

 

[spap]

Speedi sleaves are a great option too, always amazing to me how rubber can wear down steel

 

[bronkenn]

Yes it was the stock limited slip. It was a 3.50 LS and I replaced it with a 4.10 thick gear and new clutches. It is working good. These are a lot easier than installing sleeves plus they are a double lip seal so better leak prevention.

 

[spap]

Double seal will always be better very cool

 

[sanndmann3]

Very cool that you posted the info up. Knowing that you have options helps for making decisions.

 

[onpier55]

Is this seal something available from O’Reilly or Napa or special order?
Thanks
Karl

 

[bronkenn]

Probably have to order online, typing in part number should find one.

 

[onpier55]

Thank you.

 

[rjrobin2002]

Do small, medium, and large bearing use the same seal?

 

[bronkenn]

Do small, medium, and large bearing use the same seal?

I don't know, need someone smarter than me to answer that.

 

[Broncobowsher]

I remember there was a different seal depending on the bearing size. Just looked it up, 2 different part numbers.

 

[DirtDonk]

Correct. Only small and large seals. A "medium duty" bearing setup is just a hybrid of standard stuff, where the unit is equipped with the large bearing and seal, but still utilizes the small brakes.

Paul