Rear axle seal

Tiny
ORGS1245
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 155,000 MILES
Hi 2CarPros,

I just read through your detailed description of the removal and reassembly process for changing the rear axle bearing and seal, which was very informative. I recently changed out my brake pads and rotors on my 1500 LT truck and I noticed that the inside of my rear driver side disc brake was caked with a gray (graphite-type) grease. I have come to the conclusion that it is my axle seal, please correct me if I am wrong? Unfortunately, I do not have any pictures. Since I bought this vehicle used, do you think it would be the best practice to replace the axle bearing at the same time as the axle seal since I do not know if they have ever been replaced? Since I have got the rear differential open, do you think it is wise to do both sides as well? I recently bought an axle seal and bearing kit from 1AAuto which comes with both right hand and left hand bearings and seals for $45.00, so I will have both sides on hand if needed. Ultimately, it will come down to a visual inspection of the bearings and axle I am assuming. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you in advance,
Tyler
Thursday, January 11th, 2018 AT 7:25 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
Hello,

Yes, I would replace the bearing as well. it is cheap insurance and is not too difficult to replace. Here is a video for anyone that would like to see how to job is done:

https://youtu.be/zarxKsspr3s

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers, Ken
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Friday, January 12th, 2018 AT 1:44 PM
Tiny
ORGS1245
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Thanks for the reassurance and quick response Ken!

I will be tackling this job this weekend, but what are your thoughts on the side that is not leaking? I am thinking if I already have the parts and the rear differential open, to change both bearing and seal even though that side is not leaking.

Thanks again,
Tyler
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Friday, January 12th, 2018 AT 1:51 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
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Yes, good idea as long as you have it open. Can you please take short video or pictures of the job so it will help other unload them here to this page be great!

Have fun! Ken
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Friday, January 12th, 2018 AT 5:08 PM

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