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Home » How-to » Transmissions & Drivetrains » 4WD & All Wheel Drive » How to Replace a Rear Pinion Seal

How to Replace a Rear Pinion Seal

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

DIY Costs
Est. $124.71 parts only
Shop Costs
Est. $322.85 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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