When do you replace the front axle seal?
Replacement of the front axle seal is a very involved procedure, commonly requiring the front wheels to be removed from the vehicle to allow access into the front axle housing.
What are the different types of axle seals?
There are many different types of axle seals, but they all perform the same basic function. These seals can be found in front, rear, and four wheel drive vehicles. All axle seals consist of a circular component with a hollow center and rigid outer surface.
Where is the front axle seal located on a four wheel drive car?
Found in the front axle of a four-wheel drive vehicle, the front axle seal is located inside of the differential housing in most cases. In certain applications, the front axle may contain a seal further out in the front axle, towards the steering knuckle.
How does the seal on the CV axle work?
An axle seal holds the transmission fluid in at that point where the CV axle splines into the transaxle housing. In addition to keeping oil in, the seal keeps the grit and moisture out. The seal relies on a tiny amount of lubrication from the fluid it holds in to minimize wear.
Do you have to remove an axle to replace a seal?
The axles must be removed to replace axle seals. In many cases, this can be done and reassembled without disturbing the alignment. However, this is not always the case and there are often several ways of disassembly to remove an axle depending on unpredictable conditions.
What is the job of an axle seal?
The job of an axle seal is to keep the transmission fluid or differential oil from leaking out. In some all-wheel drive vehicles, one of the front CV axles is connected to the transfer case (unit). Front CV axle (driveshaft) seal.
Where is the axle seal located on a front wheel drive car?
In front-wheel drive vehicles, the metal housing of the seal grips the transaxle case, and the rubber lip of the seal rides on a machined surface of the axle. All-wheel drive vehicles often use the same kind of seal on all four axles if they have an independent suspension.
Can a rear axle bearing be replaced on a solid axle?
The replacement of a rear axle bearing on a solid axle vehicle has no implications on the wheel alignment. But it is often recommended on the first type to replace the bearing as well, as it is more often a cause of seal failure in that case.