rear axle seals

[K5dreamer]

hey all, i was gettin ready to replace the rear brakes on my 1986 M1009, 8.5in 10 bolt rear end, goverment locker rear, when i noticed everything was wet and greasy. checked the brake cylenders, theyre fine, so, to the axle seals we go.

so the question is, there arent any special tools im gonna need here right? ive got the seal puller, ive got the gasket for the diff cover, new gear oil, with the locker additive, i know ive got to pull the C-clips, but after i get the tires off, and remove the C-clips, the axles should just slide out right? or am i missing a huge "gotcha" here?

 

[Goose]

Sounds like you just about got it covered.

Take a good look at your axle shafts where the bearing ride, and also the bearings. (they're right behind the seals)

Now would be a good time to replace them. Parts store should rent/loan you a bearing puller. They are a ***** to get out otherwise. I destroyed both when I did mine about 10 yrs ago.
Also not a bad idea to replace the wheel cylinders while you got it all apart.
Fairly cheap insurance.

I had an open diff, so not sure on the C-clip removal. But, the axles will slide out once the clips are off.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

I had an open diff, so not sure on the C-clip removal. But, the axles will slide out once the clips are off.

The c-clips come out just like they would on an open diff.

Otherwise it sounds like you have everything covered

 

[user]

nope, sounds like you've got it. just be careful you don't bash up axle bearings while pulling and pushing on the axles in and out. it's just them itty-bitty c-clips that hold the things in. suggest you take the opportunity to clean out the metal bits from the differential and check parts for wear and backlash while you're in there.

 

[abig85]

just for the sake of it, if you go to take that bolt off that holds the center pin in place between the axle shaft and it broke off you can usually just back it out with a pick. almost everytime i do axle shafts that dang bolt breaks

 

[iwaxmyjimmy]

They are normally held in with loc-tite, but I just use my lil 1/4" air ratchet and I havent broken one yet. If you notice alot of wear/pitting on the axle shaft where the bearing rides napa makes a bearing that is offset so it rolls smooth.