Anyone replaced right front axle oil seal?

[thammel]

I've got a leaky seal on my 2002 XLS right front axle (4WD). I replaced the hubs this past year, so pulling the axle should be no problem. The manual calls for special tools to remove the seal and replace. I've always pulled seals with a claw hammer or screwdriver. Has anyone replaced the explorer seal? If so, do you need to drain or partially drain the front diff>

I'd appreciate your comments greatly! Thanks!
Tom

 

[Ronin8002]

I've got a leaky seal on my 2002 XLS right front axle (4WD). I replaced the hubs this past year, so pulling the axle should be no problem. The manual calls for special tools to remove the seal and replace. I've always pulled seals with a claw hammer or screwdriver. Has anyone replaced the explorer seal? If so, do you need to drain or partially drain the front diff>

I'd appreciate your comments greatly! Thanks!
Tom

Yep, it's not too bad of a job, but I would say the special tools are definitely required; specifically a slide hammer/seal puller type tool and a seal driver. Nothing you can't rent at the local advanced or autozone though.

I did not drain the diff...had the truck jacked up on the passenger side so that kept the diff fluid dripping to a minimum.

 

[Exproblems]

I've got a leaky seal on my 2002 XLS right front axle (4WD). Tom

>>>>>>>>>>

BY "right front" you mean the passenger side? If yes, I had a leaking front passenger side axle seal and I found it during my test drive last January prior to purchasing my Explorer. I made the dealership get it repaired and I spoke to the mechanic working on it. It didn't appear to be that hard to do because the total cost for the repair was $107 parts and labor incl. So a little over an hour for the labor (at $70 per hr) and the cost of the seal and tax. Never done one myself, just letting you know what the time frame should approx be.

 

[thammel]

Thanks for the replies! I've got a good slide hammer and a generic bushing driver set. I've been looking on-line for a decent puller but can't believe I really need anything fancy. The final challenge will be finding the correct seal! Per Amazon, the National 710428 is NOT the right fit, but according to the National catalog, it is. Hmmm. I'll call my local parts guy in the morning.

This should be simple for me. I've replaced tons of axles, engines, etc. I'm just trying to be prepared and learn from others...mistakes!!! LOL!

Thanks,
Tom