Differential front oil seal

[stillp]

I think the rear apron now has sufficient rustproofing. Can the diff front oil seal be replaced without removing the diff from the car?

[AlanG]

Yep. Just done mine.

Car on stands. Exhaust off. Prop shaft disconnected from diff. Two front diff mounts disconnected and diff allowed to hang down for access. Lock wire removed. Home made locking bar attached to diff flange to prevent rotation and pinion nut removed with a breaker bar and hex socket. Remove flange. Old diff oil has a most peculiar taste so catch oil in a suitable container!! Check seal contact diameter on flange is in good condition. Seal removed with chisel and screwdrivers (careful not to damage housing).

Fit new seal. Refit flange. Torque up nut and wire lock. Reattach diff mounts, prop shaft and exhaust. Refill with EP90.

Assumed IRS.

Alan.

[littlejim]

Hats off to AlanG.

Lot easier with the diff out and on the bench.

Getting the metal outside bit of the seal out was difficult in (punching holes inserting pullers etc. in my case).

If that isn't a problem you are in business a la AlanG.

[MRG1965]

HI, just an idea, I usually drill a small very small hole on opposite sides of the seal steel face and put two self tapping screws in to lever the out the seal.

 

But there is a tool available for this very purpose (at Halfords for about £15) with a hooked end that is designed to fit between the pinion shaft and the seal and lever it out, but I've never used it, too cheap I guess.

 

Mark

[stillp]

Thanks chaps. If I had room on the bench, I'd take it out, but it's probably quicker to do the job in the car than to clear enough space elsewhere.