Cv axle seals- should there be two of these?

Changed axles a while back did good around town for a month or two before I noticed a slight leak coming from the front diff. I assumed it was the seal that I opted to not change while I was in there and knew what I had to do.

so I now have it out again and I noticed two “seals” that were stacked and I’m wondering if I didn’t have the old one off when installing my new axles. Pics to follow- should there be two of these? It/they belong between the cv and the diff.

 

I’m case the photo doesn’t drive it home- both of these look identical as far as I can tell just one old and one new

 

Not usually.

 

Just to confirm, both of those were stacked into the opening on the front diff (drivers side) or axle tube (passenger side)?

There is only supposed to be a single seal on each side. There isn't a stopping point, and the seals can be driven in further than spec if not done properly.. Are you the original owner of the truck? if not a previous owner or mechanic may have driven a second seal in.

 

That’s correct. Not the original owner. This is driver side. I didn’t noticed until they fell of the end of the axle before I could see which way they were facing( for reinstalling) so I cussed but then said “hey, wait a second.” Lol

 

I re- read your post and I believe I understand more clearly- you’re exactly correct. I don’t think the were driven too far as they just fell off when I pulled the axle. I reckon this is the reason she was letting some oil out. This time I’m gonna go ahead and change the other seal that I suspected in the first place. I’m also putting on new rotors and pads and have new upper ball joints. I don’t have a press so I took the whole knuckle off and cleaned it up real good so I can take it up to a shop that has one.

 

I believe there is a Timmy video on replacing the seals- you should check that out before you replace them, as it contains instructions on setting the depth of the seals.

You don't need a press to change out the upper ball joints. The right size puller should do the trick once the C-clip is removed. You can rent a kit from an auto parts store, or just buy the right one- they are useful to have.

 

First, they are not seals. They are "shields" that get tapped on the inner joint, one per axle.
They frequently get knocked off, overlooked and sometimes accidentally doubled up.

Center left "dust cover"


Here's one installed in real life from a file on another subject. It's a "New" (China) NAPA branded shaft.


Toyota shaft.

 

I swapped my driver side CV and was thoroughly confused for a while. The axle I pulled out didn’t have one of these shields but the new one had one pressed on out of the box. I inspected the outer seal area on the diff but there was no shield still in place. I have no idea what is going on but my best guess is one got left off during a previous swap? I went ahead and installed the new CV with the shield and so far no issues or leaking but I’ve only driven about 30 miles so far.

Wish I could answer your question but I’m confused as well. Good luck.

 

that’s the one and you showed which way they face. Thanks a tone, brother.

 

so when I want to put the new ones in can I just torque it in like I did the lowers and tie rod ends?

 

Does anyone know where to source the CV axle dust sheilds?
Mine got thrown away by a rebuilding shop and I can't seem to find the part number or identify exactly which part it is in the FSM.

 

The FSM doesn't have part numbers.

https://parts.toyota.com/a/Toyota_2...11_6721620/FRONT-DRIVE-SHAFT/674460-4302.html
Here is the link for my truck. You should enter your vin... but the CVs should be same (provided you have ADD and not manual hubs).

 

Thank you friend, that is exactly the help I needed.