this is probably on here and i missed it, i need to replace both axle seals on my 02 durango. how do i remove the inner axle so i can get the seals out and new ones in. i looked on alldatadiy and they showed a tool that had 2 pieces with splines a collar and threaded insert for a slide hammer. i cant find this tool anywhere. do i have to have this tool or is there another way. thanks guys

 

AXLE SHAFT SEAL AND BEARING
REMOVAL
Remove the axle shaft.
Remove the axle shaft seal from the end of the axle shaft tube with a small pry bar
NOTE: The seal and bearing can be removed at the same time with the bearing removal tool.

Remove the axle shaft bearing from the axle tube with Bearing Removal Tool C-4660-A.
Inspect the axle shaft tube bore for roughness and burrs. Remove as necessary.
INSTALLATION
Do not install the original axle shaft seal. Always install a new seal.

Wipe the axle shaft tube bore clean.
Install axle shaft bearing with Installer 5063 and Handle C - 4171.
Install the new axle shaft seal with Installer 8402 and Handle C - 4171.
Install the axle shaft.

 

that doesn't answer my question. do i need the special tool to remove the axle to get to the seal and bearing or is there another way since i can't find the tool anywhere

 

You don't need to remove the axle stub to replace the seal.

Though it can be done by mangling the old seal with a screwdriver and hammer, the best way is with a seal puller that is basically a small slide hammer with a sheet metal screw afixed to the end. You either thread them into the crease on a seal (if it has one), or drill a small hole and screw it into that. Sometimes takes a few holes.

 

You should get a Service Manual: http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=c...b5ba589d1986ba The seals should just lift out if you place a small crow bar or large screw driver in, and be VERY careful not to scar the inner surface of the axle. This is the correct tool for removing axle seals, but even the service manual uses a pry bar:




Now the axle bearing is a real pain in the *** to get out! It is located right behind the seal. There is a special tool for this and you can take your pick:

I like the 3 finger floating pullers:



And here is the other:

 

When I did mine, My uncle had me use an old wood chisel and pry it out. It actually came out very easily and without a fight. To change the seal old one out and new one in in less than 5 mins. I changed it because I had the front end apart to do ball joints. Whole job, tire off to tire on, took about 1 hr 25 mins.

 

I know this post is old but the original question has not been answered. Take out the replacement of the seal for the sake of this converstation. How does the Stub Axle come out of the Diff Housing? Is there a keeper pin inside of the diff housing that needs to be removed? That would mean that the Diff cover needs to be removed. OR does the Stub Axle come out of the housing by using a slid hammer of sorts? This was the original question.

I am doing this now and have the same issue. I can't get the stub axle out in order to remove(properly) the seal and beaing.

Thanks in advance. BTW, I still can't believe how much this forum freakin rocks.