Axle Shaft, Oil Seal and Bearing Replacement

Rear Axle Shaft, Oil Seal and Bearing Replacement

Removal Procedure

^ Tools Required
- J2619-01 Slide Hammer with Adapter
- J8092 Driver Handle
- J21128 Axle Shaft and Pinion Oil Seal Installer
- J23689 Axle Shaft Bearing Remover (large shaft)
- J23690 Axle Shaft Bearing Installer
- J29709 Axle Shaft Bearing Installer (9 1/2 inch ring gear)
- J29712 Axle Shaft Bearing Remover (9 1/2 inch ring gear)
- J29713 Axle Shaft Seal Installer (9 1/2 inch ring gear)

Important: Observe and accurately mark the positions of all driveline components relative to the propeller shaft and axles prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shaft, drive axles, pinion flanges, output shafts, etc. Reassemble all components in the exact relationship the components had to each other during removal. Follow specifications and torque values. Follow any measurements made prior to disassembly.

1. Raise and support the vehicle on a hoist and support with safety stands.
2. Remove the wheel and tire assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (Excessively Tight Wheels) in Wheels, Tires and Alignment.
3. Remove the rear brake drum.
4. Remove the axle carrier cover. Refer to Axle Carrier Cover Gasket Replacement.





5. Remove the pinion shaft screw from the differential case.





6. On axles without a locking differential, remove the pinion shaft.





7. On axles with a locking differential, remove the shaft part way, and rotate the case until the pinion shaft touches the housing.





8. On axles with a locking differential, use a screwdriver or similar tool to enter the differential case and rotate the lock (1) until it aligns with the thrust block (2).

Important: Do not force or hammer the axle shaft.





9. Push the flange of the axle shaft toward the differential.





10. Remove the lock (8) from the button end of the axle shaft (7).
11. Remove the axle shaft (7) from the vehicle.
12. Inspect all parts for wear.
13. Replace parts as necessary.
14. Remove the axle shaft seal (9) from the end of the axle housing tube (2) using the J23689.





15. Pull the bearing from the axle housing tube using the J23689 for an 8 5/8 inch ring gear axle or the J29712 for a 9 1/2 inch ring gear axle.
15.1. Insert the tool with a J2619-01 into the axle tube so that the tool grasps behind the bearing.
15.2. Tighten the nut and washer of the J2619-01 against the face of the bearing.
15.3. Pull the bearing out using the J2619-01.

Installation Procedure





1. Install the axle shaft bearing using the J23690 for 8 5/8 inch ring gear axles or the J29709 for 9 1/2 inch ring gear axles.





2. Install the axle shaft seal using J21128for 8 5/8 inch ring gear axles or the J29713 for 9 1/2 inch ring gear axles.
3. Lubricate the axle bearing and seal with wheel bearing lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations.

Important: Do not force or hammer the axle shaft.

4. Install the axle shaft.
5. Push the flange of the axle shaft toward the differential.
6. On vehicles without a locking differential, install the axle shaft lock on the axle shaft in the differential case.





7. On vehicles with a locking differential, install the pinion shaft part of the way into the differential case.
On vehicle with a locking differential, rotate the differential case until the pinion shaft touches the housing.





8. On vehicles with a locking differential, use a screwdriver or similar tool in order to enter the case. Rotate the lock (1) on the axle shaft (4) until the lock aligns with the thrust block (2).
9. On vehicles with a locking differential, place the axle shaft lock on the button end of the axle shaft.
10. Pull the axle shaft flange outward in order to seat the lock in the differential side gear.





11. Install the pinion shaft.

Important: Anytime a differential pinion shaft locking screw is removed, coat the screw threads with Loctite 242 before reinstalling. These screws are coated with an adhesive that helps prevent the screw from loosening in the case. When the screw is removed, the adhesive is also removed.





12. Install the pinion shaft screw to the differential case.
13. Install the rear axle carrier cover. Refer to Axle Carrier Cover Gasket Replacement.
14. Install the brake drum.
15. Install the wheel and tire assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Excessively Tight Wheels in Wheels, Tires and Alignment.
16. Fill the axle with fluid. Refer to Lubrication Specifications.
17. Remove the safety stands.
18. Lower the vehicle.