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Rear axle oil seal

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PeterB

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I notice a little spot of oil under where the drive shaft meets the rear axle. I ordered a new seal thinking the old one may be leaking. This is my first time replacing something like this so I have a stupid question. Do I pack any type of grease on the seal or does it just go in dry and refill the rear axle with the recomended oil?

Thanks,
Pete
 
ALWAYS lubricate a lip-type oil seal upon assembly. Simple grease, or the lube that it will be holding back is sufficient, though I always use Parker O-ring lube whenever I'm installing rubber touching metal.
 
Hey Pete,
Plus make sure you torque the large nut down per specs or you will get more leakage. You will need to stabilize the flange as you tighten down the nut so a good way is to build a stabilizing bar that bolts to two of the holes on the flange and when you go to torque it down, the bar makes contact with the garage floor and will not allow the flange to move therefore allowing you to tighten the nut properly. I used a piece of steel angle iron, believe 1 inch or 1.5 inches on the side as if you get it too big, can't get to the nut with your socket. Believe the works manual has a good description on how to change the old seal on the rear end.
Regards,
Mike
 
Any good 80W-90 or 85W-90 gear lube will do--StaLube sells it by the gallon, you'll need about 3.5qts IIRC--though I prefer Redline 75W-90 synthetic. You can go with a heavier (140) gear lube, but I don't think it's necessary. Put some thread sealant on the plugs.

Also, be mindful of the proper positioning of the seal. There is a bevel on the driveshaft end of the third member--the seal should be positioned on the inner edge of that bevel (not too far in). Check the yoke where the seal rides and make sure there isn't a wear groove (shouldn't be, but check). If there's a groove you might be able to clean it up with emery cloth or position the seal just slightly inward (but not much). If it's a bad groove you may need to replace the yoke.
 
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