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11-21-2021, 12:33 AM | #1 |
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Location: San Jose, CA
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Replace differential seals and gaskets
Is there info for changing differential gaskets and seals that does not require disassembly of the gear set and spider? My eyes are getting bleary from searching the Model A forums and the Big Red book goes straight to a complete tear down.
I have noticed that my differential is weeping between the axle bells and the banjo and the left side grease seal is leaking. I would like to just change gaskets and seals. I only drove my car for few blocks before I started tearing into it to redo the brakes and refurbish the steering and leaf springs, so I am not aware of any bearing or gear issues. |
11-21-2021, 02:19 AM | #2 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Remove the axle housings to replace the seals in them as well as the gaskets on the banjo.
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11-21-2021, 08:50 AM | #3 | |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Quote:
Don’t be intimidated - this is easier than it sounds if you have access to a spring spreader and have a helper. And, there are people on this forum who can help with any questions you have. Good luck - Jim |
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11-21-2021, 09:30 AM | #4 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
This is the quickest way to get the rear axle apart which is necessary to replace its gaskets & seals.
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Bob Bidonde |
11-21-2021, 10:23 AM | #5 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Thanks to all for your responses. I was afraid that I may need a special tool; I do have the spring spreader.
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11-21-2021, 10:52 AM | #6 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
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11-21-2021, 11:35 AM | #7 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
When you remove the axle housings from the centre section check the gaskets. There should be one gasket on either side, but may have more than one on either or both sides. Sometimes additional gaskets are used/required for adjusting ring to pinion mesh.
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11-21-2021, 05:46 PM | #8 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Sorry, but there is more, as posted above, than just replacing seals and gaskets. The housings to center section gaskets are what is used to set preload on the carrier and pinion and ring gear mesh.
http://www.santaanitaas.org/wp-conte...vised-2014.pdf https://www.santaanitaas.org/tom-endys-tech-articles/
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11-21-2021, 07:35 PM | #9 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
His gasket set should include multiple gaskets for that purpose.
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11-21-2021, 07:46 PM | #10 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Yes they do, but if he has never done one before...this would be all new to the OP.
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11-21-2021, 08:35 PM | #11 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
You may want to get a 0 to 1 inch micrometer and measure the existing gaskets so they can be replaced with the same thickness.
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11-21-2021, 09:25 PM | #12 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
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11-22-2021, 12:30 AM | #13 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Also make sure that all bolts return to the original location and do not use a thread chaser on either the internal or external threads. They are a different pitch than more common bolts of similar size. If any need replacing for any reason buy new ones specifically for the part being delt with. (This applies to the banjo to axle housings and banjo to torque tube.)Mike the gaskets for thickness and replace as found. So what we are saying is make sure every part taken off goes back where it came from or is replaced with a like part in all measurements, unless you are ready to overhaul the entire thing, which is often unnecessary if you are just curing a modest dripping leak. Also, I would download Tom Endy's instructions and print them to have in front of me all the way through. See #8 above.
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11-22-2021, 11:27 AM | #14 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
The above responses identify concerns that arose once I started sourcing gaskets. Some comprehensive gasket sets include pairs of varying thickness for the center section gaskets. I am of the mind at this point to just complete the brake and spring work and drive the car for a while to determine the condition of the differential. Pulling the rear axle at a later date is not as daunting as screwing up the rear end by trying a quick fix for an oil leak. Spindle grease seals for now.
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11-22-2021, 11:55 AM | #15 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Don't forget the seals in the rear hubs.
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11-22-2021, 11:59 AM | #16 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
A suggestion:
Drain the banjo and one at a time remove each of the twenty-banjo bolts and coat the threads with sealer and replace. Torque all banjo bolts to 35 ft. lbs. This may solve your problem and if not, it will not cause any damage. Tom Endy |
11-22-2021, 04:56 PM | #17 | |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Quote:
Thank you for the suggestion; it's on my things to do list. |
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11-22-2021, 08:30 PM | #18 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
I would like to echo the poster above about owning (and using) a micrometer....for close tolerance measurements like this (gasket thickness for setting mesh) the micrometer is easy to use and very reliable.
Every Model A owner should have a 0-1" micrometer...even one of the cheaper versions will provide the accuracy needed. |
11-22-2021, 08:58 PM | #19 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Be careful when measuring gasket thickness, the old, compressed gaskets are slightly thinner than the new ones you'll be replacing them with.
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11-24-2021, 05:55 PM | #20 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
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11-24-2021, 08:47 PM | #21 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Add your general location to your profile, there may be someone close with a spring spreader they could loan you. Sometimes clubs have tools they loan like spring spreaders.
Charlie Stephens |
11-25-2021, 11:58 PM | #22 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
I just got done assembling an axle that was in parts with my basket case 31 Victoria and its not that bad once you do it. I did have a fellow club member help and please do that if you can. Assemble the axle with no spider and no gaskets...... then try to spin the ring gear by hand. It should be almost locked in place and move with more force than should be necessary. Then its trial and error with finding the gasket thickness. On my axle it was .009 on one side and .006 on the other. The ring should spin but not have slop in it. Its a Pain in the a$$ so have an air tool for the 10 bolts. Once you get it right take it apart and assemble the spider and wire the castle nuts. Its not that bad and I could do it by myself the next time without a problem.
Note: Clean the hell out of the inside of the axle when it's apart and your gear lube will say nice and clean |
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11-26-2021, 12:07 AM | #23 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Also use synthetic gear lube and not the overpriced 600w....it will help keep the inside of the axle clean. Once you see the inside of the axle you will know what i am talking about. Gear lube 90 years back is not what we have today.
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11-26-2021, 01:39 AM | #24 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Very helpful suggestions. I did recently join the local MAFCA club; SCVC.
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11-26-2021, 10:40 AM | #25 | |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
Quote:
you need to measure them, and replace the same thickness,
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11-26-2021, 12:35 PM | #26 |
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Re: Replace differential seals and gaskets
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