Front axle seal replacement

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first&lastKJ

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I just noticed today that the front passenger side axle seal is leaking. Any tips on removing the seal? It looks like the seal is recessed in the axle tube two or three inches.
 

JeepJeepster

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I think I was able to pop it right out with a seal puller. Its very easy to gouge the area around the seal and I did. I used a small file to smooth it out, no issues since.
 

duderz7

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I actually used a cat claw (small nail puller/prybar). The 90° end, fit the teeth under seal and pry it out. Like JJ said above, be careful not to score it. If you find a plastic bushing in there rather than a needle bearing I suggest replacing that too. Mine is currently leaking, but I think it has more to do with the worn plastic bushing allowing slop. Currently building another diff with bearings.
 

first&lastKJ

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I actually used a cat claw (small nail puller/prybar). The 90° end, fit the teeth under seal and pry it out. Like JJ said above, be careful not to score it. If you find a plastic bushing in there rather than a needle bearing I suggest replacing that too. Mine is currently leaking, but I think it has more to do with the worn plastic bushing allowing slop. Currently building another diff with bearings.
Thanks for the replies. I can’t believe they used plastic bushings instead of bearings. I guess I will take everything apart and see what I’m dealing with. This is in my 07 and I hope it is a bearing not a bushing.
 

duderz7

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Iirc 2004 was the last year with a bearing. Good neis they're interchangeable. Do some googlationing and you'll find it. Here's a picture of what you want... and my sexy legs.
 

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first&lastKJ

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Iirc 2004 was the last year with a bearing. Good neis they're interchangeable. Do some googlationing and you'll find it. Here's a picture of what you want... and my sexy legs.
I believe it was Summit’s website that showed a plastic bushing and said 2 were required for the right side. So how hard is it to get the bearing out?
 

duderz7

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I've not had the pleasure with a diff installed. But I'd think a 2 or 3 jaw internal puller with a piece of metal (wrench) across the outer flange for the puller to push against
 

first&lastKJ

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None of the auto parts stores in town have the seal I need and can't even order it.
 

duderz7

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JeepJeepster

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Ahh, theyre under wheel seal, which doesnt make sense... But thats where RA has them... They also have the bearings.


 

first&lastKJ

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I finally decided to try to remove the seal tonight. After trying screw drivers, every size pry bar I have, and looking at every tool I own, I decided to give up for the night. I just could not find anything that would work to remove the seal. Then I looked at my C clamps. I took a 3" c clamp and it fit into the axle housing and behind the seal. I threaded it in, the swivel head was on the outside of the axle tube, and it worked, seal popped right out. I could not believe it.
 
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