3rd rear axle seal in a year and a half

[cccolin]

Howdy folks,

so I've got a 98 5spd manual 4x4 with factory locker. I've put a lot of miles on it, but it's eating rear axle seals and rear wheel bearings on the passenger side. I'm about to get it redone, wondering if anyone has any tips or solutions so i don't have to keep doing this. The leak has made my brake pads swell as well. I'm really tired of replacing pads, bearings, and axle seals and would like to figure this out.

 

[samsquantch]

How's your diff breather? Seems like these are usually the cause.

 

[cccolin]

no idea. that's not something I know much about.

 

[St Runner]

Diff breather sits on the top of the axle and lets air pressure out but nothing back in. If it its clogged it will build up pressure in the diff and will force oil through the inner seals. Inexpensive and easy to replace. Pick one up at the dealer

 

[mtbtim]

Howdy folks,

so I've got a 98 5spd manual 4x4 with factory locker. I've put a lot of miles on it, but it's eating rear axle seals and rear wheel bearings on the passenger side. I'm about to get it redone, wondering if anyone has any tips or solutions so i don't have to keep doing this. The leak has made my brake pads swell as well. I'm really tired of replacing pads, bearings, and axle seals and would like to figure this out.

Sounds like to me mistakes are being made. Who did the previous seal and bearing replacements? Are they or you confirming you have a good mating of the inner retainer with the axle seal? If this job is done right, you should be good for a 100K+ miles.

You might benefit from watching these two videos to better understand how this repair can be screwed up, even by the supposed "professional mechanic".

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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R-c2x3F8DU4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>