Rear Axle Seal And Bearing Replacement - 3rd Gen 4Runner

Summary

In this instructional video, the host demonstrates a rear axle seal and bearing replacement on a 1999 Toyota 4Runner. After discovering a leak during a backup camera installation, the host details the process of removing the axle, disassembling and reassembling it with a focus on using an OEM Toyota seal for reliability. The video highlights the importance of proper seal selection, the use of specific tools for bearing removal and installation, and concludes with a discussion on the necessity of sourcing quality parts and the potential issues arising from non-OEM seals.

Takeaways

• 🔧 The video is a tutorial on replacing the rear axle seal and bearing in a 1999 4Runner.
• 📹 The issue was discovered when the driver's side rear axle seal started leaking gear oil, noticed during the installation of a backup camera.
• 🚗 The leak is common in these trucks and can be caused by a clogged rear differential breather, which pushes oil out of the seals when heated.
• 🛠 The Marlin crawler kit is recommended for the replacement as it includes most needed parts, but it's suggested to replace the included seals with OEM Toyota seals for better compatibility.
• 🔄 The video covers the process of removing the axle from the truck, disassembling it, and then putting it back together.
• 🛡 The use of a special tool is highlighted for removing the ABS sensor without damaging it, contrary to the manual's recommendation to cut it off.
• 🔩 The importance of using the correct OEM seal is emphasized due to its flexibility and design that fits better with the axle housing compared to the aftermarket seals.
• 🛑 The video demonstrates how to safely remove and replace the axle's circlip and bearing without causing damage.
• 💡 A 'grease test' is suggested to ensure the seal is positioned correctly on the axle housing, preventing future leaks.
• 🛒 The video mentions additional tools like a bearing puller and installation tool, which can be found on eBay, that make the job easier and quicker.
• 👍 The video concludes with a reminder to bleed the brakes, refill the differential with gear oil, and a call to action for viewers to subscribe and engage with the content.

Q & A

What is the main task being performed in the video?

The main task being performed in the video is a rear axle seal and bearing replacement on a 1999 Toyota 4Runner.

Why was the rear axle seal replacement necessary?

The rear axle seal replacement was necessary because the driver's side rear axle seal was starting to leak gear oil, as noticed during the installation of a backup camera.

What issue is common in these trucks that can cause oil to leak from the seals?

A common issue in these trucks that can cause oil to leak from the seals is a clogged rear differential breather, which can push oil out of the seals as the differential heats up and expands the air inside.

What kit did the presenter use for the replacement and what was included in it?

The presenter used a Marlin Crawler kit for the replacement, which included the axle seal, dust cover, retainer, O-ring, and a set of Nachi bearings.

Why is it recommended to use an OEM Toyota axle seal instead of the one included in the Marlin Crawler kit?

It is recommended to use an OEM Toyota axle seal because the seal included in the Marlin Crawler kit is less pliable and has a different design that may not seal as effectively as the OEM seal, potentially leading to leaks.

What tool did the presenter use to remove and install the bearing and ABS sensor?

The presenter used a bearing puller and installation tool, which was purchased from a seller named Donald on eBay, to remove and install the bearing and ABS sensor.

What is the importance of using a press sleeve when installing the bearing and retainer?

The press sleeve is important when installing the bearing and retainer as it helps to evenly distribute the pressure during the installation process, ensuring proper seating and preventing damage to the components.

What is the 'grease test' mentioned in the script and why is it performed?

The 'grease test' is performed to check the position of the seal on the axle housing. It involves applying grease to the retainer and sliding the seal into place, then observing where the grease is wiped off to ensure the seal is seated correctly.

What is the purpose of flipping the bevel on the retainer during the seal installation?

Flipping the bevel on the retainer during seal installation provides more surface area for the seal to make contact with, which can help the seal to seal better, especially with the redesigned OEM seals that have an edge closer to the bevel.

What additional tools or equipment are needed to perform this job besides the bearing puller and installation tool?

Besides the bearing puller and installation tool, additional tools needed include a press, basic sockets, ratchets, wrenches, and a small plate for pressing on the hub end of the axle to prevent damage.

What is the presenter's final recommendation regarding the spare bearings that were removed?

The presenter recommends keeping the removed bearings as spares for potential future use, but notes that they may not be reliable for the 4Runner due to the gear oil seeping into the bearing grease, which could wash it out.