Gm Front Axle Leaking

[autotran77]

I have a quick question. I am working on a 79 (ish) Chevy 1/2 ton 4x4 front differential. Gear oil appears to be leaking out of the passenger side axle tube when I drive the truck with the hubs locked. I am pretty sure the breather is clear. The oil level is about 1/2" below the fill plug. I am thinking the inner axle seals??????

 

1) Any tricks on removing the differential besides making sure the caps and spacers go back into the same location?

 

2) I guess I have to punch out the old seals. Any tricks on getting the new ones in?

 

I have removed front axles already to replace u-joints but never oil seals.

 

Could this be anything else???????

 

[98ChevyC1500]

I have a quick question. I am working on a 79 (ish) Chevy 1/2 ton 4x4 front differential. Gear oil appears to be leaking out of the passenger side axle tube when I drive the truck with the hubs locked. I am pretty sure the breather is clear. The oil level is about 1/2" below the fill plug. I am thinking the inner axle seals??????

 

1) Any tricks on removing the differential besides making sure the caps and spacers go back into the same location?

 

2) I guess I have to punch out the old seals. Any tricks on getting the new ones in?

 

I have removed front axles already to replace u-joints but never oil seals.

 

Could this be anything else???????

 

 

If the oil is coming out of behind the u-joint, as i understand it, then yes you need to replace the seal and if you want to do even better, replace BOTH seals and you won't have any more problems for a looooooong time!!!