need help on changing front axle pinion seal

[Blackout51]

I noticed my front axle is leaking from the pinion seal do I got a new one but I can't get the front drive shaft off, the only wrench I can get around the bolts is a small crescent wrench but it slips off, any advice is appreciated

 

[SoNic67]

Are you talking about the U-Joint bolts? You need to use a Torx bit (star) for those.

 

[Blackout51]

Are you talking about the U-Joint bolts? You need to use a Torx bit (star) for those.

That is the bolts on the rear of the driveshaft that goes into the transfer case, mine are standard bolts on front of drive shaft that goes into the axle

 

[SoNic67]

You mean this end? They are Torx on mine.

On the CV end are regular bolts.

I also have this tool for cramped locations like that, the handle rotates:

http://www.lowes.com/pd_172851-2053...&cm_mmc=AFF_CJ-_-4150373-_-3151135-_-10935405

 

[Blackout51]

You mean this end? They are Torx on mine.

On the CV end are regular bolts.

I also have this tool for cramped locations like that, the handle rotates:

http://www.lowes.com/pd_172851-2053...&cm_mmc=AFF_CJ-_-4150373-_-3151135-_-10935405

Yeah I think the difference is that yours is the awd and mine is 4wd because on the front that connects to the axle the bolts that hold those loops that go over the u joint are held down by standard bolts

 

[SoNic67]

The straps had Torx, I can't imagine how else you could deal with those, unless you have a thin wall socket or open wrench.

 

[rb142]

Those are supposed to be Torx head bolts. If you have normal bolts, they were probably replaced by someone (after destroying the originals). There isn't enough clearance to get onto a hex there, so getting them out won't be easy.

Try using a flare nut wrench if you can get it on. That would grab a lot better than a normal open end. Don't use an adjustable wrench -- that will just round them off. The factory bolts used red loctite and had to be heated in order to get them out without breaking or stripping. Yours may have this too, so if you can't move them find a torch (propane will do) and apply some heat.