I'm servicing my front axle U joints, bearings and outer seals. The inner axle shaft seal is near the pumpkin on each side. Should this be changed at the same time (it is not currently leaking, shafts are dry)? Can it be changed with shafts out and diff cover off? The FSM doesn't say much about it that I could find.

 

You can approach it two different ways...

1) they're not leaking so just let sleeping dogs lie

2) you're already 75% into the axle so just go the other 25%

If you choose option 2 you'll need to pull the diff cover and remove the carrier assembly...

Knock out the old seals (I like to use a broomstick), drive in the new seals, coat them in grease so the axles slide in without damaging the new seals.

Were it my rig i'd opt for option 2, you're already in there anyway so why not, the seals are only a few bucks each.

 

I would like to replace the old seals as PM but... does pulling the carrier require a housing spreader? I'm guessing the AP store may not have one of those for loan.

 

You won't need a load spreader but it might be a tight fit if the pre load on the carrier bearings is correct, it may be tough to get out and back in.

Just be careful and take your time, make sure you keep the shims and bearing races on the same side they came off of, the bearing caps also need to go on the exact same way they came off.

You can use a wrench on the ring gear bolt and spin the pinion to slowly roll the carrier out, use a bead blow hammer to put it back in.

(like I said before if the seals aren't leaking you can just leave them be, it's up to you)

Dana 44 Axle Seal Replacement