pinion flange/seal

[snapple]

Took a peak under my van to check my exhaust.When I spotted the rear side of my gas tank was wet! It was gear oil,and it looks like I either will be replacing my pinion seal.Maybe flange also.
According to my FSM ,as usual calls for some specialty tools.Anyone got any advice or words of encouragement on this repair?
Guess,for now I'll top off with gear oil,not sure how long it's been leaking.I haven't noticed any new noises from the rear. So hopefully caught this in time!
Then again,I think I'll need(want) 4.10's after my lift! Then I'd need to do the front too.... Its NEVER ending!

[Smiliesafari]

No real tricks. A strong impact wrench will be the best way to remove the nut. Put a punch mark on the nut and a corresponding one on the housing to index where the nut was. Then you won't have to worry about the proper torque when you reinstall the nut. Pretty easy job.

[snapple]

Cool,crawled under for a closer look and checked the oil level.Which was still good,so must have started leaking recently I guess.After a closer look,didn't seem to bad!
Thanks for your feedback!

[LiftedAWDAstro]

When you remove the nut, count the number of threads showing. When you tighten it back up go the correct number of threads and rotate just slightly past the mark you placed.

Or just rebuild it with the 4.10's

[snapple]

FSM mentions seal lubricant for new seal,anyone know what it is?I need to get a bigger socket to remove the pinion flange nut,and figured I could pick up the lubricant as well.
Thanks, Bill

[snapple]

FSM mentions seal lubricant for new seal,anyone know what it is?I need to get a bigger socket to remove the pinion flange nut,and figured I could pick up the lubricant as well.
Thanks, Bill

Nevermind,I'll just use gear oil.
Off to get some more tools!

[Smiliesafari]

Gear oil works good. Or just pack the inside of the seal with some wheel bearing grease.

[snapple]

Got the flange off,now I can't get the old seal out!
Man,everythings got to be a battle with this van!

[Smiliesafari]

Well you're not trying to save it. Take a hammer and screw driver and beat it out of there. Be a bit more gentle with the new one.

[snapple]

Well you're not trying to save it. Take a hammer and screw driver and beat it out of there. Be a bit more gentle with the new one.

Beat the hell out of it alright! Mission accomplished,job's done!