Inner seal/ axle seal replacement

[razzman1]

I'm replacing the axles in my 4runner and after pulling the old ones out I noticed that the seals on the inner side of the steering spindles are deteriorated. The seals appear to be called axle seals, inner seals or dust seals, but all appear to be referencing the same thing. I ordered new ones, but I can't find any instructions on how to properly remove and reinstall them--as they appear to be pressed in to the spindle. Can they just be gently pried out with a pick or scscrewdriver, or is there a special tool?

Thanks.

 

[ARunner]

As I recall from my experience, yes. With regular hand tools I removed and installed new seals- the large seal that's roughly the diameter of a coke can, right?

 

[@Lurch]

Old ones come off with a screwdriver and hammer.

Use the dust cap to set the new ones on, it fits in the seal perfectly.

 

[GLP]

When I replaced my axles I noticed mine were deteriorated. Could not get them out so left them in because I just wanted to get the job done that day and it appeared to be somewhat of a back-up seal (I recall there was a second seal). It's been 3 or so years and haven't had any wheel bearing problems.

So for me it was kind of like "If it aint broke don't fix it, and sometimes if it is broke don't fix it". Not how I like to do things but it worked for me that time.

 

[razzman1]

When I replaced my axles I noticed mine were deteriorated. Could not get them out so left them in because I just wanted to get the job done that day and it appeared to be somewhat of a back-up seal (I recall there was a second seal). It's been 3 or so years and haven't had any wheel bearing problems.

So for me it was kind of like "If it aint broke don't fix it, and sometimes if it is broke don't fix it". Not how I like to do things but it worked for me that time.

Ya, I had considered doing that, but when I pulled he CVs out, the spring O-rings that sit on either side of the steering arm and are supposed to provide tension to the seal, collapsed all the way in / came off. I figured as long as I was doing it, and I didn't need my truck for a few weeks, I'd try and do it right. The place I ordered my replacement wheel bearings from had the seals, so I figured why not.

Great tip about using the dust cover to press in the seal, [MENTION=81173]lurch[/MENTION]--thanks!

I'll post some pictures of the success...Or the throwing of tools.