Ford Explorer: Rear Drive Axle/Differential / Removal and Installation - Rear Halfshaft Seal

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

	205-153 (T80T-4000-W) Handle
	307-758 Installer, Axle Seal -FWD
Feeler Gauge
Flat Headed Screw Driver

Removal

NOTE: The stub shaft seals must be replaced whenever the halfshafts are removed.

1. Remove the rear halfshaft.
   Refer to: Rear Halfshaft (205-05 Rear Drive Halfshafts, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove and discard the rear halfshaft seal.
   Use the General Equipment: Flat Headed Screw Driver

Installation

1. Inspect the differential housing surface for rust, nicks and scratches. Polish the differential housing surface with fine crocus cloth, if necessary.
   

1. NOTE: Installation of the halfshaft oil seal without the correct tools can result in early seal failure.

   NOTE: Do not disassemble the new oil seal.

   Install the new rear halfshaft seal onto a suitable special tool.
   Use Special Service Tool: 307-758  Installer, Axle Seal -FWD. , 205-153 (T80T-4000-W)  Handle.

1. NOTICE: Strike only the handle. Directly striking the installer tool will damage the seal.

   NOTE: Carefully align the halfshaft seal with the housing bore and ensure the seal should flush in the differential housing.

   Install the new rear halfshaft seal.
   Use Special Service Tool: 307-758  Installer, Axle Seal -FWD. , 205-153 (T80T-4000-W)  Handle.

1. NOTE: If a feeler gauge of the specification shown in the illustration can be inserted between the halfshaft oil seal and the differential housing, the halfshaft seal is not seated correctly. Remove the halfshaft oil seal and install a new halfshaft oil seal.

   Make sure the stub shaft oil seal is correctly seated in the differential housing.
   Use the General Equipment: Feeler Gauge

1. Inspect the halfshaft seal lip for rust, nicks or scratches prior to installing the halfshaft. Clean the seal lip with fine crocus cloth, if required.
   

1. Install the rear halfshaft.
   Refer to: Rear Halfshaft (205-05 Rear Drive Halfshafts, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Check the differential fluid level.
   Refer to: Differential Fluid Level Check (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential, General Procedures).