Topic: Replacing My Pinion Seal

[1982toy]

I have a 1982 Pickup. My pinion seal is leaking. I want to replace this myself, but the things i have read about this has been kinda of Vague. I have all the tools to do it, but some say 180ftlbs then others say 90. I also heard if you torque it to much it can ruin your third member.

So if anyone out there has done this and can help me out with the process that would be great.

Thanks

Mike

[DD85runner]

bump whats the torque spec?

[joey0712]

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/PinionSeal/index.html

[bleakhorizon]

hell.... in the past ive just loosened it up, re tightened till I get to the same spot the lock nut was punched at... never had a problem..

i usually use a dab of sealant on the flange splines to fight leaks too

[-Jake-]

bump whats the torque spec?

There is really no torque spec if it is installed in the housing.  If you're running solid pinion spacers make it as tight as you want.  If you're unsure then just try to see where the nut is before you take it off and put it back close or a little tighter.  I also pack the rear of the seal is with white lithium grease to keep the spring from popping out.  I also coat the outer diameter of the seal with some gasket maker.  Don't forget to wet the seal with some 90 w and its also not a bad idea to put rtv on the pinion splines so your pinion flange doesn't leak.  Good luck!

[GNasty 82]

The problem here is that the pinion bearings must have a certain preload on them (usually around 10 inch-lbs).  If you tighten the nut to much, you will have too much preload.  The best way is to mark exactly where the pinion nut is before you take it off and return it to the exact same position when you put it back on.

[DD85runner]

thanks guys. ive read all kinds of numbers from 90 to 150+

[NorCalToy]

hell.... in the past ive just loosened it up, re tightened till I get to the same spot the lock nut was punched at... never had a problem..

i usually use a dab of sealant on the flange splines to fight leaks too

thats how i did mine the other day....loosened nut and when i tightened it i lined up the punch marks and called it cherry...havent had any problems with it...

[-Jake-]

thanks guys. ive read all kinds of numbers from 90 to 150+

90-150 ft/lbs on the pinion flange nut?

[zippo]

You prolly just need to get it tight. prolly 100-130ish. The bearings are pressed on and really should move to much unless you play with it. I would even say take it a little tighter to replace a little preload on the pinion bearings. If you are really worried about it, pull the third and test the preload.

[DD85runner]

90-150 ft/lbs on the pinion flange nut?

yeah, not on here on a different forum though