Rear Axle Seals

pull diff cover, remove cross shaft retaining bolt, remove cross shaft, slide axle in, remove c clip, slide axle out. goes without saying don't turn axles once cross shaft is out. seal pops out easy, can even use the end of the axle to remove it. But first inspect the bearing surface of the axle for any signs of wear, burling, pitting, etc. If shows signs of wear replace the bearing and the axle shaft as well as the seal. Pack the new bearing with grease, install with correct driver. install seal, pack area between seal and bearing with grease, lightly grease axle where seal and bearing ride. If everything is ok when it comes apart, replace seal, pack area between seal and bearing with grease, lightly grease axle and install reverse order of removal. Use a six point wrench to remove the cross shaft retaining bolt. They have been known to break when removing. personally, I always replace them in pairs, even good seals are cheap.

Whitelightning

Thanks Whitelightning What grease do you recommend ? The red , lithium based type used for the front wheel bearings? Compatable with the 80-90 lube in the Diff? Thanks again....Pete

I used to use Kendal High temp wheel bearing grease, red in color, never had a problem with using it. I don't think I would use a lithium based though.

And one other foot note, there are those that will tell you if there is wear on the axle, there are off set bearings that move the seal and bearing to different spots on the axle. don't waste your money or time. The needle bearings are half the size of stock, the seal is non standard and always fails. In an emergency its a short term stop gap. Other wise replace the axle.

Don't forget you will need to replace the brake shoes and thoroughly clean the drums and backing plates. If she got hot back there, replace the return springs and hardware, kits are cheap less than $10 most times for both sides. I change them every other brake job on rear wheel drive, every brake job on front wheel drive.

Whitelightning