Front Diff Axle Seal

Hi, I did a few searches but can’t find exactly what I’m looking for. So here goes...
I need to replace the front diff axel seal, driver side. I want to know if it’s possible to remove the cv axel to gain access without totally dismantling the brakes, tie rod, spindle etc. Basically is there a cheat? I’ve been in there before but was replacing lots of parts, this time I just need to do the seal. Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

You can leave the brakes and spindle. They swing away after you pull the tie rod and axle nut and spindle bolts.

 

Are you going to do the ECGS bushing while you’re in there?

Make sure you only drive the seal in flush. If you drive it in too deep, it will leak.

 

Thanks, that’s less work than I feared but more than I was hoping for.

 

got it. I’ve done the job before but was replacing cv’s and bearings at the same time.
I’ve never replaced the ECGS bushing (330k/200miles). Can I see the condition when I get the seal out?

 

That’s really not much work. The “spindle bolts” he’s referring to are the 2 lower ball joint bolts.

Edit. The OEM roller bearing allows the CV joint to move up and down, which may be causing your leak. Grab the drivers side CV joint and move it up and down. There is no definitive answer in how loose is too loose. The ECGS bushing is a better fit and lasts longer.

There have also been TW members that have had a problem with aftermarket CV joints causing a diff leak because they’re made wrong.

 

Ya, should be an easy job. I just have a very limited time between the kid going to bed and work. Didn’t want to spend any more time on this than necessary.
As for the roller bearing, thanks for clarifying. Mine is tight and didn’t leak for the last 3 years. If I can get another 3 I’ll be happy. I also bought a better seal which I’m hoping installs better than the last one and maybe lasts a bit longer.

 

Hello TW, i'm jumping in this thread with this sort of off topic but related question: Does the painted (bearing/ bushing) surface of this new remanufactured axel (from CVJ Axel -Denver CO) give any concern? Obviously the old CV's wear surface is shinny smooth bear metal from 237k miles of use.... OR am I overthinking this?

 

CVJ has a great reputation and I have to assume they know what they are doing, but I am surprised like you at this. I wouldn't have expected it either. I guess we will see what anyone else says. Maybe wait till Tuesday and ask them directly?

 

another in another thread said they had installed 2 axels from CVJ that looked like this.... so... it's going in after lunch....

 

I just changed mine a few weeks ago I just took out the two bottom bolts of the spindle and swung everything out the way. I did the same when I replaced my front diff with a new one from ecgs last week because I switched to 4.88’s. You have plenty of room to get everything out. Also FYI I just thought about this. I don’t have my sway bar so..... that might come into play but not sure

 

How did that Diff swap with ECGS go for you? I am considering that in the future....

 

Honestly really easy. The hardest part was having to bench press the front diff into place to put it back in.

 

what did you go with, for what tire wheel size set up is your rig?

 

I did 4:88. I have 35’s plus a ton of weight, shell, rtt, fridge, Full armor including skids. Recovery gear etc I was going to go with 4:56 but ecgs told me at the minimum for 2nd gen they would recommend 4:88 for all my weight