I have had the rear axle seal replaced twice in the last few months and it is now leaking in 2 weeks. The first job was done by a stealer and lasted a few months. The second job was done by a garage and last 2 weeks. Near as I can tell, not seen it myself, the shaft is not scored, at laeast that is what I was told.


Anyone had any experience with seals on a 2500 8 bolt drumb removable axle and what needs to be done to make the seal work. What is the torque on the preload nut? Looks like I will have to get in there and do it myself so help ahead of time will be appreciated.Edited by: HowieE

hum When I had my seal replaced we found that the hub part where to seal goes wouldn't hold a seal tight. The last owner/mechanic before I got it used RTV to hold it in place. It ended up costing me a set of brakes too.


Inspect the axle well too.

I haven't had a problem myself, but remember reading somewhere that a repeat axel seal problem could associated with the outer bearing being worn (presumably causing a wobble that wears the seal)? It might be worthwhile having a close look at the outer bearing if you are doing it yourself.

I found where I read it. Here is the link - it looks like you are not alone with the problem.


http://www.gm-diesel.com/diesel/vbull/showthread.php?t=10935

My dad has the rear seal problem as well, I've replaced the outer bearing and the seal twice. It's hell on the front brakes when the backs getting gear oil on the drum and pads. I was driving behind him on the freeway and I could see his rear axle/tires shaking at 65 mph. Up and down real fast. We had decieded to try an adjustable rate shock to see if it can be dampned.

A little trick is to put a dam of heavy grease in the area inside of the seal to help keep lube from even hitting the seal. Works wonders.

check the differential vent tube if it it kinked or stopped up it will cause the pressure to build up and the fluid will push out through the seal.dont know if this is the problem or not,I have fixed a couple this way.

I would do a Speedy sleeve just to be sure that the seal race isn't worn.





Also use National brand seals whenever possible. The National and many others have a large inner reinforcing ring to hold the seal body rigid. Instead of a [ shape, it's more of a G shape

Just seen that my seal leaks and toke truck to deal (still under warranty), they called me after truck been there all day, and said no leakege where found and that everything was ok, when back to dealer and told its leaking like it was before, than shop forman whent under truck and said, o yea looks like the seal is leaking, will get it first thing in the morning, (second day no truck) and i'll personaly check it out, and call about eleven, to see what they come up with, will see tomorrow what happens, anyone any sugestions? thanks


Vitaly