Dumb front diff oil level question

[HoosierJeeper]

Had an axle seal leak on the KJ, topped off the front diff once before replacing the seal (for a second time in a week, stop laughing:favorites68: ) . Don't really feel like dealing with the fluid pump but also don't really feel like dealing with a grenaded diff. When I undo the fill plug, nothing comes out but if I stick my finger in, I can feel fluid. Is that the proper level? I've read 1/2" below the fill hole to right to the bottom. Don't want to underfill it but also don't want to blow out the seals. This is with it on flat ground, not jacked up.


Thanks!

 

[ltd02]

That's about what I've been doing. I read that about being a bit below the fill plug and stick to it. I use ramps, so the front is up a bit, but still don't fill it until it runs out. I'm checking mine tomorrow just got back from a 400 mile holiday run.

 

[LibertyTC]

Ya just below fill plug is good. HJ real bad luck on that darn seal..eek.
Is everything all good now HJ...??

 

[HoosierJeeper]

I hope so. Keeping my fingers crossed, so far so good.

What you have to do is pack the groove on the back of the seal full of tacky grease, like this stuff.
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/...Ox6k0suaZOqIUwGZT716WIqg25APVWPMaAo_oEALw_wcB

There's a little metal spring band that sits in the grove and can pop out during the install if it doesn't have something to keep it in place. Also doesn't hurt to put a little of that lube around the circumference of the seal too and on the C-clip on the cv to keep it centered. You also can't used the socket for the axle nut to pound it in, you need something that only touches the outside diameter, the socket puts too much pressure on the inside. I borrowed this kit and it had a driver that fit perfectly and only touched the outer most part:
https://www.mactools.com/en-us/Spec...a56101735e71/Race-Bearing-and-Seal-Driver-Set

 

[ltd02]

I've used that Lucas red and tacky grease in the past (Not on the KJ). It's cheap and available at Walleyworld. My Ranger has the two piece driveshaft with a slipyoke on the front end that needs that stuff every once in a while or it clunks. It really does stay in place too.

 

[HoosierJeeper]

Does it melt away? The Dr ****** (well that has a new meaning today LOL) melts when it gets up to temp, that's why my guru recommended it. Guessing the Red N tacky would be fine too.

For removal, the gasket scraper is the way to go. Get it under the outer lip and get a gap going between it and the diff. Then turn the gasket scraper and use it to create a bend/kink in the seal to deform it and then use the seal puller to pop it out.

 

[ltd02]

The red and tacky probably does not melt away but wouldn't think it would matter for your application. I believe it is frequently used in marine application too since it stays in place. https://lucasoil.com/products/grease/red-n-tacky-grease

My pinion bearing came prelubed with some sort of thick red grease. Probably the same stuff.

 

[Aceofspades]

Would it help to use cam seal picks? I've had a set for quite some time and it's been my go-to for most seal jobs.

Reason I ask - I see mine looks wet around that area and I replaced the axles about a month or so ago. Really not wanting to tear it about now in the cold - will wing it till spring

 

[HoosierJeeper]

You could try it, but using the gasket scraper to deform it then pull it out literally took 3 minutes. Didn't mar anything up.