Change rear axle seals, bearings?
Thread Starter
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 157
Likes: 0
From: York, PA
Change rear axle seals, bearings?
(2009 JKU-A, 50,000-miles) Gear shop recommends changing rear axle bearings, seals when upgrading gears. They’ve had instances of leakages after disturbing them during the work. Sometimes there’s no issues…sometimes there is. Is this sound advice?
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 12,907
Likes: 185
From: Maine
I think the front seals are more prone to leaking after being disturbed. I would change the front seals while the diff is out because if you don't, and they leak later, (which it might even if you do change them), the diff has to come out again.
The rear seals and bearings can be changed anytime without getting into the differential.
It's up to you if you want to take the chance. Peace of mind says change them. How much extra will they charge to do it?
If you do have them changed, make sure the mechanic uses NEW bearing retainer rings. The service manual doesn't say to use new rings, as it often does with some other parts. The rings are the only things that hold the axle shafts in place, so my suggestion is to not reuse once removed.
The rear seals and bearings can be changed anytime without getting into the differential.
It's up to you if you want to take the chance. Peace of mind says change them. How much extra will they charge to do it?
If you do have them changed, make sure the mechanic uses NEW bearing retainer rings. The service manual doesn't say to use new rings, as it often does with some other parts. The rings are the only things that hold the axle shafts in place, so my suggestion is to not reuse once removed.
Former Vendor
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,615
Likes: 0
From: Newton, NJ
I think the front seals are more prone to leaking after being disturbed. I would change the front seals while the diff is out because if you don't, and they leak later, (which it might even if you do change them), the diff has to come out again.
The rear seals and bearings can be changed anytime without getting into the differential.
It's up to you if you want to take the chance. Peace of mind says change them. How much extra will they charge to do it?
If you do have them changed, make sure the mechanic uses NEW bearing retainer rings. The service manual doesn't say to use new rings, as it often does with some other parts. The rings are the only things that hold the axle shafts in place, so my suggestion is to not reuse once removed.
The rear seals and bearings can be changed anytime without getting into the differential.
It's up to you if you want to take the chance. Peace of mind says change them. How much extra will they charge to do it?
If you do have them changed, make sure the mechanic uses NEW bearing retainer rings. The service manual doesn't say to use new rings, as it often does with some other parts. The rings are the only things that hold the axle shafts in place, so my suggestion is to not reuse once removed.