Front Axle Seals Questions

Shu · December 1, 2007

How common of a problem is this really? Mine just started leaking on my 2005 1500 4x4 and I have about 58000 miles. There seem to be a lot of people asking about this problem, so to me it seems pretty common, but no one has given details on what it entails to replace these seals. It appears straight forward and you should be able to just unbolt the half shafts from the front differential shafts and move the half shafts and CV's out of the way without even dropping the lower a frame and moving the spindle. Then I assume the axle ends are bolted onto the axles like the yolk on the rear differential is on the pinion????? If so, wouldn't you just then remove the nut and pull the yolk? Is the yolk a press fit or does it just slide off? Any details on exactly how one could do this procedure at home would be greatly helpful. Since mine is out of warranty and I have been wrenching on cars for over 20 years, I would prefer to do it myself and save a little money this Chistmas season. Also, since this sounds like a common problem, are there any aftermarket seals that are better than the OEM replacements? Or any tips on how to prolong the seal life? Also what gear oil does the front take?

jemurray · December 2, 2007

I just replaced the passenger side seal on my 2005 1500 4x4 today. It wasn't too bad, but I had it on a lift. We just unbolted the shaft, poped it loose, and took out the actuator while we were at it. We had to use a pry bar to held push the front diff into a good position to get everything back on.

We popped the old seal out with a screwdriver, then drove out the old bearing with a long shaft with a socket on the end. Don't forget to put some grease on the shaft around the new seal because you won't get any diff oil up there until you drive it around in 4x4. I went ahead and engaged mine a few times while it was on the rack.

Since it was already up anyway, I went ahead and greased the front end really good too.

Mine had just started leaking a little bit, but I knew it wouldn't be long until I had a puddle in my garage. I just hope the driver's side doesn't start leaking. that side looks a bit harder.