Replacing pinion seals in place

[FJROSS]

I noticed I have a small leak on both front and rear pinion seals. I have a set of H.D Marlin Crawler seals on the way. Is there any useful tips that you guys may have for removing the old seal and installing the new one while the third member is still in place? My next question was about torquing the nut back down without disturbing the preload?

Thanks Dave

 

[dgangle]

use an impact wrench and restake the nut when done

 

[FJ40Jim]

If the pinion bearings are shim adjusted, then the preload is set by the shims. No problem to R&I the pinion flange.

If it is a later crush sleeve design, then a little more care must be used. Re-torque to where the stake nut was prior to repair, then go just a little tighter and re-stake. That will take up the little bit of wear in the bearings without getting to much preload.