Next week i'm going to replace the seal in the tailshaft housing on my AA SYE. What is the best way to go about removing and installing it?

 

Should just have to pull the yoke to gain access to the seal. BTW, didn't you just put the SYE on a little while back??

 

Yes as I remember that was the case. Just reverse your installation directions, that should get you to the seal. Try coating the edges with silicone.

 

Sorry if you guys misunderstood me! I know how to get to the seal, I was just wondering if anyone had any tips on actually pulling the seal out without damaging the tailshaft housing. Also if there are any tricks to putting it back in without damaging the new seal. I've done one before on an Explorer but the seal was damaged in the process. I just don't want to gall the housing or damage the bearing.

I did just install this SYE a few months ago, but after repeated attempts at tring to get the tailshaft to stop leaking, I talked to AA about the situation. They seemed to think that it was a problem with the seal and sent me a new one and a star washer.

 

I use the aluminum seal puller tip on my slide hammer to remove seals like that. The aluminum keeps from galling the housing and as I suggested before put a little silicone on the edge of the seal before installing it. That will act as a lubricant and once dry will also act as an additional seal. HTH

 

silicone, like RTV? Aren't you supposed to soak the seal in ATF like you do lifters in oil, before you install them?

 

I use a standard seal puller or a mini pry bar to pop the seal out. I usually use transmission assembly jelly on the rubber seal surface when reinstalling and either use a light coat or RTV or the red gasket maker stuff that Mopar makes (can't remember the name of it) around the outer surface of the seal where it mates with the tail housing.

 

Maybe you are but I never have. After the seal is in place I always wet my finger in whatever the seal is supposed to seal in or out and spread it on the seals inner surface. Other than that the silicone seals the outer edge of the seal/case surface.

 

I've always used a very fine flathead screwdriver on all my seals. Just lightly tap it away little by little till it comes out. Use something flat to put over the new seal when you tap it into place so it goes in straight. My friend managed to scrape up the housing on his stock output housing but coated it with rtv before putting it back in and it never leaked a drop.