Has anybody changed the front main seal to the diff with out pulling the whole shaft out? Any suggestions on things to replace while im under the lift? it has 139k and runs great and no noise from the diff.... and i do flush the vent pipe often too..... Any ideas or thoughts will be taken and considered....tks
jake

 

The pinion seal can be replaced with the diff 'in situ'. Move the prop-shaft off to the side and hold it with 'bungee cords' or straps, baling wire etc.

I once worked with a guy that used a hammer to tap the seal into place and managed to dislodge the seal 'spring'. He got another seal from parts and DID IT AGAIN.

I told him to pack the backside of the seal with GREASE to keep the spring in place.
The 3rd seal installed fine. (he never heard of the trick to keep the spring in place.)

If you want to put the pinion preload back to where it is now I would suggest MARKING the pinion shaft/nut with a cold chisel and put the nut back to the same place.

If it is at all loose you can tighten slightly but at least you have a starting point for bearing preload. (there should be no radial or axial play but too tight is BAD)

bob gauff

 

I did get seal ( front main/drive shaft) in today..... We ordered the part on monday and got it today... My friend Gene, owns a mechanic shop and lets me use his lifts...

It was easy and standard operation.... we did loosen a (small)support plate closer to the gearbox, but thank goodness the entire rear end didn't need to come out! We just pushed it out of the way and changed the seal.....

Of course we changed the diff oil again..... and all is good.... now we will degrease and clean the rear suspension and the mess....again...cheers

jake

 

tks Bob for your experience and knowledge.... it was just like you posted.... cheers
jake