This procedure applies to the rear pinion seal on all vehicles and the front pinion seal on 4WD models. Begin by loosening the wheel lug nuts, raising the vehicle, and securely supporting it on jackstands, while blocking the wheels at the opposite end to prevent rolling. Remove the rear wheels for a more accurate pinion shaft preload reading. Disconnect the driveshaft from the
Differential and position it off to the side using rope or mechanics wire. Use an inch-pound torque wrench to check the torque required to rotate the pinion. Make alignment marks on the pinion shaft and flange before removing the nut, then unstake the pinion nut. Count the number of threads visible between the end of the nut and the end of the pinion shaft for later use. A special flange holding tool is recommended to keep the companion flange from moving while loosening the pinion nut; if unavailable, immobilize the flange with a large screwdriver wedged against a bracket or reinforcement rib. Remove the pinion nut and withdraw the companion flange, using a puller if necessary, without prying or hammering on it. Pry out the old seal and discard it. Lubricate the lips of the new seal with high-temperature grease and tap it evenly into position, ensuring it enters the housing squarely and to its full depth. Align the mating marks made before disassembly and install the companion flange, tightening the pinion nut to draw the flange into place without hammering. Apply non-hardening sealant to the ends of the splines visible in the center of the flange. Install the washer if equipped and a new pinion nut, tightening it carefully until the original number of threads are exposed. Measure the torque required to rotate the pinion and tighten the nut in small increments until it matches the recorded pinion shaft bearing preload, compensating for the drag of the new seal by tightening slightly more, but not exceeding 5 in-lbs. Once the proper preload is reached, stake the collar of the nut into the slot in the pinion shaft. Reconnect the driveshaft to the pinion flange, check the differential lubricant level, and add if necessary. Finally, install the wheels, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.