Kauz

I am replacing the axle seal on the driver side on a 97 ES300 and I can't get the seal to seat in properly. I am using an oil filter socket to drive it in with a hammer. The socket fits over the outer wall of the seal perfectly but I get the seal to go in 2/3 of the way and then it won't go in any further and eventually it will go in crooked and I have to pull it out. I've already ruined two good seals.

I've replaced several seals in the past: cam shaft, crank shaft, other axle seals, but I just can't get this one to seat in right. Has anyone ever replaced this seal that can give me some tips.

Thanks,
Kauz

llcoolpass

I'm on my way to your house right now to help you right now Kauz...


[funny way of saying I could only help you in person]

newbies... what can ya do?

Do you have a repair manual? did you mar the surface of either part?

BDSL

Apply a thin film of oil on the seal and the seal contacting surfaces. Use a rubber mallet to tap the seal into place.

llcoolpass

You will have to be very careful when installing the new seal. They can easily be damaged during installation. Put a very light amount of grease on the outside circumference. Push the new seal in as far as you can by hand[keeping it even as possible]. The best tool to use when installing a rear axle seal is a seal driver. Socket of sufficient size will also work. Find the right size adapter and use it to hammer the seal in place. Make sure that it seats evenly and does not have any dents in it. If you do not have a seal driver you can use a block of wood and a hammer.

Kauz

OK, thanks for the tips. Maybe I'm just being impatient. I'll try again.