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How to Replace a Rear Pinion Seal

for all vehicles ( View guide for your vehicle )
Parts needed: Suggest Parts
Gear Oil Pinion Seal
Tools needed: Suggest Tools
Screwdriver Scraper
(Show)
Supplies needed:
Brake Cleaner
Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $336.68 parts only Shop Costs
Est. $572.97 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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1
 
Park the vehicle on a solid level surface to ensure that it does not roll or lean when raised. edit step - submit photo
2
 
Raise the rear of the vehicle using a jack. edit step - submit photo
Jack lifting vehicle up by pinch weld
3
 
Secure the vehicle with jack stands on both sides for safety before starting any work. Do not rely on the jack to hold the vehicle up while working. edit step - submit photo
Jack stands supporting the vehicle from both sides
4
 
Inspect the rear differential housing for oil leaks. edit step - submit photo
5
 
Remove the gear oil fill plug. edit step - submit photo
6
 
Mark the drive shaft rear u-joint and the pinion flange for installation reference. Disconnect the u-joint from the pinion flange. edit step - submit photo
Removing the driveshaft U-joint retainers
7
 
Mark the pinion flange, pinion shaft and nut for installation reference. Remove the nut and washer from the pinion shaft. edit step - submit photo
8
 
With a drain pan under the pinion flange, remove the flange out and away from the differential. edit step - submit photo
9
 
Pop out the pinion seal using your hands or a screwdriver. edit step - submit photo
10
 
Wipe the housing clean and insert the new seal. Lube the seal with oil. edit step - submit photo
11
 
Inspect the pinion flange for grooves. Install the pinion flange, washer, and nut, and torque to the manufacturer’s specifications. edit step - submit photo
12
 
Connect the driveshaft back to the pinion flange and torque the retaining bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. edit step - submit photo
13
 
Fill the differential housing with the manufacturer’s recommended gear oil. edit step - submit photo
14
 
Tighten the drain plug to 20-30 ft. lbs. of torque. edit step - submit photo
15
 
Lower the vehicle to the ground. edit step - submit photo
16
 
Road test the vehicle to verify your repair. If any leaks are found address as necessary. edit step - submit photo
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