Replacing Inner Axle Seals

[jperry1290]

Do I need any special tools or tricks to replace the inner axle seals? I already know about using a socket to pound them in/out. What about pulling the axles or gears?

 

[Viperwolf1]

Front axle, right?

Yes, the axles and the carrier need to come out.

 

[marty]

you have to pull drum/discs, spindles and then slide the axles out and the remove the center section. seal are right there. i just did this yesterday. one trick i did to reinstalling the center section was i put it in the freezer overnight. seem to make putting it back in easier but i don't know how it would be putting it back in normally. might as well change the outer seals why you are at it. good luck

 

[jperry1290]

yes front axle. i know the axles and carrier need to come out. i am trying to see what special TOOLS are needed

 

[addicted]

No "special" tools needed besides a spindle nut socket. The carrier can be a pain to get out without a case spreader but I just fed a rag in between the ring and pinion while I turned the yoke and the carrier pushed itself out of the housing. I would like to know exactly how you guys remove and replace those seals because thats the next thing I'll be doing also.

 

[1970mule]

seals easy to get out tuff to get in.

i actually used an old spindle nut same diameter as the inner seal, i put it against the seal and beat it on there. i used a big punch to hit the spindle nut on the seal. its tuff to get in there but that worked and i did not distort the seal.

 

[jperry1290]

seals want to go in easily on top, but not on the bottom. Any ideas? I ve already killed on seal.

 

[broncodriver99]

I sprung for one of these. http://broncograveyard.com/bronco/i-29668-d30-44-60-side-seal-install-tool.html

I bet you could make something out of some threaded rod, a socket, and washers for much less.

 

[Viperwolf1]

I bet you could make something out of some threaded rod, a socket, and washers for much less.

X2. Threaded rod is your friend.

 

[NC-Fordguy]

Here's the methond I've used once the carrier and axle shafts are removed

Coat the outside of the seal with assembly lube and place in tube

Slide a length of threaded black pipe through the knuckle and then through the seal( be carefull not to push the seal out or nick it) works better with a helper

Slide a large fender washer over the pipe next to the seal

Use 1/2 in pipe coupling on threaded end of pipe locking the washer against the seal

thread a pipe clamp (I have pony brand) to the other end of the pipe that is outside of the knuckle

Pull everything tight and strike a hammer to the flat side on the pipe clamp until seal seats. keep the washer and pipe centered to keep even pressure over the seal

Remove and do the other side