Rear differential leak

[rookie99]

New here, My mechanical ability is probably a 5 on a 1-10 scale. My Explorer is a 99 stock XLT. I posted this on the main board, DrDoom suggested I post it here. I've been seeing a small puddle of 90 wt gear oil (touched and smelled it, distinctive odor) from the rear differential just about every time it's parked for a day or two. Looks like it's coming from the seal at the input shaft. I have never had a differential apart. I've pulled drive shafts, replaced universal joints, transmission seals, that kind of stuff. What am I getting myself into if I try to replace this seal myself? I'm a member on the Honda VTXOA motorcycle board and have learned quite a bit there and even managed to help a few people out too. Members there often provide links to info on specific questions as well as hands on advise. Hopefully, you guys have the the same type of set up. Thanks, in advance, Gary

 

[Turdle]

I googled 8.8 pinion seal replacement. There was a lot of places to look and this video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BW7eo8yXhw

 

[rookie99]

Thanks for the link Turdle. I didn't know it was called "pinion". Helps when you know what your looking for I'm assuming the Ranger is the same as the Explorer for this job? I have a "click" type torque wrench, so I guess I'll be doing it like that guy did, looks like it'd work. Any special techniques or tools to get that nut loose? Got a surprise this morning. Had planned to take the Explorer to work instead of the bike (supposed to rain), didn't happen. Batt dead. Haven't driven it for at least a week or more. Guess I'll charge it and get it load tested.

 

[rookie99]

Did some more searching, the "pinion" really made the difference. Found this write up. http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?p=951680 Yeah, I know it's a competing forum, hope that doesn't matter. Looks like what I needed.