Axle Seal Replacement

[crouse]

So, I tried to change the axle seals this weekend. I removed the rear wheels, brake calipers and wheel sensors. I removed the rear cover, but couldn't get the axles to push in far enough to remove the C-Clips. There was only about 1/4" of play in and out. What am I doing wrong?

[crouse]

This is the best video I've ever seen on the replacement of clutches.

https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=139173b82569222 7&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1052US1052&sxsrf=ACQVn0_UIGcoAAwKABs_NRkm lN-Ff5wcug:1713810710154&q=ford+8.8+clutch+pack+replace ment&tbm=vid&source=lnms&prmd=svinmbtz&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwio39y0utaFAxXr48kDH ayiC7sQ0pQJegQIEhAB&biw=1920&bih=911&dpr=1#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:99a4923c,vid:vUJ9h_-t_e0,st:0

[crouse]

Would removing the pin allow the axles to push in farther?

[TORINO]

Yes the big pin in the center has to be removed. When the seal leaks it usually means the axle and bearing is bad, but maybe just junk seals. u-tube must have video's of pulling axles.

[mustangeddie]

So, I tried to change the axle seals this weekend. I removed the rear wheels, brake calipers and wheel sensors. I removed the rear cover, but couldn't get the axles to push in far enough to remove the C-Clips. There was only about 1/4" of play in and out. What am I doing wrong?
Did you remove the abs sensors, you need to at least move them in about 3/8" if you don't want them off completely and remove the center pin to get them pushed in far enough to get the c clips out.

[crouse]

I did remove the ABS sensors, but not the pin. :( I'll try again this weekend. At least I have the re-useable gasket now.

Axles, bearings and Motorcraft axle seals were new about 10k miles ago. I Auto-Cross my Marauder, so that gear lube is getting thrown side to side. Should I apply a little RTV on the outside of the bearing to seal it against the axle housing?

[mustangeddie]

Put the RTV around the perimeter of the seal before you put it in the housing. If you change your mind about a girdled cover a have a couple to sell.

[TORINO]

Be sure the vent is not plugged.

[Turbov6Bryan]

Don’t spin the axle when the pins removed, you will spit the spider gears out.

id just rtv the cover, not the bearings or axle seal

[crouse]

Be sure the vent is not plugged.

Good advise. Thanks.

[crouse]

Don’t spin the axle when the pins removed, you will spit the spider gears out.

id just rtv the cover, not the bearings or axle seal

Thanks. In the video link I posted, the guy has a good technique for putting them back in.

[ao0d]

In any case, you'd better check the bearings.

[priscilla]

It sounds like you’re on the right track with removing the axles to replace the seals, but the issue might be related to the axle shaft bearings or the process for accessing the C-clips. Worn or damaged axle bearings near the seal might prevent the axle from moving freely. Inspect the Insulated bearings (https://en.tradebearings.com/list_39.html) through the axle tube if possible. If they are seized or overly tight, they could be limiting the axle's movement.

[crouse]

Just an update. I replaced the axle seals with some O'Reilly seals and I ran 7 auto-cross events with no axle seal leaks. Finished 7th out of 22 in my class which I think is good considering I'm running against Mustangs, Camaros and a Hellcat Charger and a Hellcat Challenger.