Replacing Pinion Seal How-to?

[88rocco]

My son's 96 Ranger 2wd needs a rear u-joint. While looking underneath, the rear axle housing has been leaking from the pinion seal. I figure if the driveshaft is dropped....do two at once. Is it hard to change that? I assume the pinion shaft nut would have to come off, but I don't want to chance and screw up the rear-end and start a project I can't fix whiling he's visiting the turkey weekend. Thanks so much.......

 

[88rocco]

Disregard....I'll just change the u-joint. After searching and reading this:
http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15585&highlight=pinion+seal

Ehhh, I'll pass!

 

[thegoat4]

Some leaky pinion seals are due to a clogged breather tube. If you clear it the seal might stop leaking, or at least slow down. Worth a try since you don't plan to change the seal.

Either way, make sure you check the diff oil level. Some failures will cost you a whole axle, and lube failures are always preventable.