Front seal leak?
- Thread starter MSJKU11
- Start date
fiend
Caught the Bug
MSJKU11
Caught the Bug
Hard to do? Should I just let a shop take of it or should I tackle it?
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Jsouder53
Hooked
It wasn’t terrible to do but I would possibly get a quote to do it just to see what a shop would charge. If you want to give it a try I would make sure to have 2 sets of seals on hand. I accidentally messed up one seal and had to order a new set online and had to wait till the following weekend to finish the project.
Last edited:
Jsouder53
Hooked
The Build and Adventures of Bearbait
https://wayalife.com/showpost.php?p=1083855
Here is where I started with the project if you want to read through it.
https://wayalife.com/showpost.php?p=1083855
Here is where I started with the project if you want to read through it.
cpefy3
Member
I replaced them a couple of times on the Dana 30 in my XJ. Just like any job, having the right tools helps. I purchased this Yukon Seal installation tool (https://www.amazon.com/Yukon-Gear-A...1&s=gateway&sprefix=yukon+seal,aps,121&sr=8-3) so I was able to do it by myself. My review of the tool is under Collin E.
3 points of caution are:
1.) Make sure the seal starts off straight
2.) Use Spicer Axle seals
3.) When re-installing the axle shafts, do not let them slide on the bottom of the axle tubes as this may dislodge the seals (support them on the inside of the knuckle with your other hand). Best of luck!!
3 points of caution are:
1.) Make sure the seal starts off straight
2.) Use Spicer Axle seals
3.) When re-installing the axle shafts, do not let them slide on the bottom of the axle tubes as this may dislodge the seals (support them on the inside of the knuckle with your other hand). Best of luck!!
Edwrds
Caught the Bug
My brother in-law used a long piece of all thread and a large socket the same size of the seal to press his seals in.
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cpefy3
Member
I was going to go this route; but for the long side of the axle it would be hard to hold the socket in place (to prevent driving the seal in crooked) and tap the all thread without a second set of hands. Either way, its definitely a doable job. Best of luck!!
cpefy3
Member
Good call. One more thing, make sure to note the orientation of the bearing caps as they must be placed the exact same way during re-installation. On my axle the caps and housing are stamped with a corresponding letter vertical on the left cap/housing and horizontal on the right cap/housing. Also, make sure these are torqued to the spec of your axle.
Bear_JT
Hooked
Mine just started this leak also. Guess we’re in the same boat.
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Sent from my iPhone using WAYALIFE mobile app
MSJKU11
Caught the Bug
Seems it's pretty common. You plan on replacing the seals or upgrading?
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rmilobrown
Member
Yes, there is no gear lube in the front axle tube past the inner seal.
HAPPYTRAILS
HAPPYTRAILS
cpefy3
Member
The portion of the inner axle seal that "holds" around the axle shaft is like a spring. Over time these slowly stretch and aren't able to hold out the gear oil from the differential. I would also check that the differential wasn't overfilled. If it wasn't overfilled, the leak will get progressively worse as that seal continues to stretch.