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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Brakes, Frame, Steering & Suspension => Topic started by: mpeche92372 on May 04, 2020, 01:19:55 pm

Title: Axle Seal? Yeah pretty sure but would like another opinion :)
Post by: mpeche92372 on May 04, 2020, 01:19:55 pm

Hi Guys,

I have been a member here for a long time, but I don't post much..  just kinda real a lot, etc.  I had my 87 K10 1/2 ton in storage for a few months, since I was moving.  I finally brought it out of hibernation, drove it to my new home and I believe I have a bad axle seal, as the pictures are what greeted me this AM.  Just looking to have some of you guys here that know a TON more then I confirm it.  I also have to come up with the parts list to get this done:


Axle Seals (might as well do both sides)
Gear Oil
Gasket for diff cover
RTV sealant for cover

Any special tools I might need?
Tips tricks??

Thanks in Advance!!!

Title: Re: Axle Seal? Yeah pretty sure but would like another opinion :)
Post by: VileZambonie on May 04, 2020, 01:54:44 pm

If it is gear oil, then yes it would be axle seals. If it is brake fluid, then wheel cylinder.

Title: Re: Axle Seal? Yeah pretty sure but would like another opinion :)
Post by: mpeche92372 on May 04, 2020, 02:37:24 pm

Thanks Vile...

I never thought about it possibly being a wheel cylinder.  Does the fluid have a different smell/viscosity? 
I guess I will start by pulling the wheel off and go from there.

Title: Re: Axle Seal? Yeah pretty sure but would like another opinion :)
Post by: VileZambonie on May 04, 2020, 03:19:18 pm

yes and brake fluid will rinse away with water while gear oil will leave a stinky and slippery residue.

Title: Re: Axle Seal? Yeah pretty sure but would like another opinion :)
Post by: mpeche92372 on May 04, 2020, 03:42:48 pm

Another great tip.  I knew you were the expert   ;D
I'm pretty sure at this point it's an axle seal.

If I pull the wheel and drum off will I be able to tell for sure??

Title: Re: Axle Seal? Yeah pretty sure but would like another opinion :)
Post by: FlatBlack77 on May 04, 2020, 05:46:48 pm

Once you get the drum off the source will be obvious.

Axle seals arent fun to change but it's not as hard as changing the axle bearings. I went through that last summer.