Axle Seal Replacement = Alignment?

[81reaper]

I just replaced both front axles on my 2004 SR5.

With new inner axle seals sitting on my bench, I made the stupid decision to not put them in.

My reasoning was, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".

Well, now it' s broke. The passenger side leaked overnight.

Can anyone tell me the best way to replace this seal without requiring a 're-alignment? I had it aligned yesterday and don't want to pay them another $65.

Thanks.

 

[TRDCal]

Can anyone tell me the best way to replace this seal without requiring a 're-alignment? I had it aligned yesterday and don't want to pay them another $65.

Why would you need an alignment after replacing axles or axles seals for that matter? Those parts don't affect the geometry of the suspension...

 

[chris360hawks]

The rear axle doesn't get aligned only the front

 

[81reaper]

I am talking about the front axle/cv joints.

TRDCal, it's not the axles that concern my alignment, it's my path to them. I assume the best route to them is undoing the lower ball joint, but does this alter the alignment?

All of this was replaced during the installation of a lift kit and many other parts so getting to them without affecting my alignment wasn't a priority the first go around.

 

[jstutz101]

This is the best write up Ive seen for removing CV axels and it dosent affect your alignment...

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/101038-how-install-new-cv-axles.html#post914207

 

[81reaper]

Thanks jstutz101, I ran across that guide but was unsure as to whether or not disassembling the lower ball joint altered the alignment.

Thanks for clarifying. I will use this method. Hopefully I will only be out a little gear oil.

Thanks

 

[TRDCal]

TRDCal, it's not the axles that concern my alignment, it's my path to them. I assume the best route to them is undoing the lower ball joint, but does this alter the alignment?

All of this was replaced during the installation of a lift kit and many other parts so getting to them without affecting my alignment wasn't a priority the first go around.

Oh I see, I guess I just misunderstood. I see you got your answer. Good luck with seal replacement.

 

[81reaper]

Thanks guys.

I'm not touching anything just yet. The drips have stopped, so maybe a few more warm up/cool down cycles will seat the old seal to the new shaft.

Feeling hopeful for now.