Replacing Axle Seals
01-23-2015, 11:49 PM
#1
Replacing Axle Seals
Hey all, I just bought a used S2 differential a couple of weeks ago and I just finished doing all the preparations prior to installation. My main concern is how the seals look after pressing them in; I used a seal press tool and hammered it as evenly as possible. I noticed some of the rubber material are pinched on the sides and I'm worried that there may be potential leaks after install. I'm just wondering if this is normal since this is the first time I have replaced axle seals. I used OEM ones as replacement in case you're wondering.
Just wanted to throw some before and afters as well.
This one is when I first received it. There was a lot of corrosion from New Jersey weather, thankfully the seller had the sides plugged with microfiber towels so no foreign materials got inside while it was sitting.
This is after I cleaned everything off with a wire brush and sprayed part of the housings with engine enamel. The corroded cover was also sand blasted (with the inside masked). Most importantly, I cleaned the inside generously with brake cleaner and wiped off all the old gear oil. It has sat for about week now which should be more than enough time to let the remaining cleaners evaporate. Then I finalized the process by resealing the cover with red Permatex RTV silicone.
Just wanted to throw some before and afters as well.
This one is when I first received it. There was a lot of corrosion from New Jersey weather, thankfully the seller had the sides plugged with microfiber towels so no foreign materials got inside while it was sitting.
This is after I cleaned everything off with a wire brush and sprayed part of the housings with engine enamel. The corroded cover was also sand blasted (with the inside masked). Most importantly, I cleaned the inside generously with brake cleaner and wiped off all the old gear oil. It has sat for about week now which should be more than enough time to let the remaining cleaners evaporate. Then I finalized the process by resealing the cover with red Permatex RTV silicone.
Last edited by Jazzmeson; 01-24-2015 at 02:59 AM.
01-24-2015, 06:13 AM
#2
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Replace them. The top pic looks like the rubber is split, they both look deformed. To make them easier to install, put them in the freezer for a few hours,apply a lubricant to the outer edge before installation.The 3rd pic has a different seal than the first to pics.
01-24-2015, 10:09 AM
#3
Originally Posted by CRO8TIA
Replace them. The top pic looks like the rubber is split, they both look deformed. To make them easier to install, put them in the freezer for a few hours,apply a lubricant to the outer edge before installation.The 3rd pic has a different seal than the first to pics.
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01-24-2015, 06:40 PM
#4
Took them off and you're right, the rubber split on the sides. I ordered new seals and should arrive by Tuesday. I'll definitely give the freezer method a shot and try to press it as evenly as possible. Thanks for the help.
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01-24-2015, 06:47 PM
#5
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Better to be safe than assemble everything and have a leak. If you didn't already know, putting them in the freezer reduces the seal diameter a miniscule amount,and with a little lube,makes them much easier to install. Good luck
01-24-2015, 07:10 PM
#6
Originally Posted by CRO8TIA
Better to be safe than assemble everything and have a leak. If you didn't already know, putting them in the freezer reduces the seal diameter a miniscule amount,and with a little lube,makes them much easier to install. Good luck
Posted From RX8Club.com Android App
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