Hey guys,

I am replacing my CV Axle Seal this weekend (leaking at the trans). Any tips or tricks? I don't see any descriptive DIYs. Seems pretty straight forward and I recently had the suspension apart replacing a tie rod end and lower ball joint so that should be easy. The uncharted territory comes in when pulling out the old axle and putting back in. Also, removing the old seal (probably baked in) and replacing with new. I am going to try and rent a seal removal tool.

Think I should just replace my axle while I am there? 160k mi on original axles but no real signs of failing in future.

I will try to put together a nice DIY with pics when done.

 

My rule of thumb is,

If the CV joint's dust boot has torn, replace the axle.

If you mean the transmission seal is leaking ATF, that's different. Any noises or vibrations when turning? The leak may be a symptom of a binding or worn CV joint. In that case, yes... replace the axle.


OTOH, if your grease leak is because of a "puncture wound" (road debris knocking a hole in the boot), you could just get by with sealing the boot with RTV.

 

UPDATE: The dealership replaced my 3rd gear pressure switch about 1-1/2 weeks ago. I had noticed the leak directly after them working on it. When i took the car back to them, they are the ones that told me the axle seal was leaking.

I got everything ready this past weekend to install the new seal. Upon inspection I found ABSOLUTELY no fluid around the seal. Took the car back to the dealership yesterday and they told me the pressure switch seal was leaking and that it will only be $50 to fix. I just about lost it. I explained the situtation and how THEY were the ones that replaced the switch and they fixed for free.

Can safely say this is the last time they will see my business.

 

My only suggestion is to loose up the center axle bolt first before you start jacking up the car unless you have an impact gun.

 

That's one shady dealership..