Front Axle leaking...again
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New User
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 17
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Front Axle leaking...again
I have a 77 Ford F150 with Dana 44 front axle and NP 203 TCase. Upon purchase of the truck a pesky leak developed with oil from the center (pumpkin) running out the axle tubes and draining down thhe ends of the axle tubes onto the front disc brakes. For a while, I put up with the truck marking its "territory" on the front driveway but finally tore the axle apart and replaced the seals inside the pumpkin and also the pinion seal. Now it is about 3 days later and the same leaks have reappear. 
I have two thoughts...
first the axle shafts are slightly grooved and oil is pushing past the seals. I will pay more attention to this the next time I pull the axle apart. The second thought, more remote possibility is the more than one size of seals were available and I may have been given the wrong size (ID too large).
Does anyone know if there was more than one part choice for these seals? I have also verified that the axle breather is functioning.
Thanks in advance.
I have two thoughts...
first the axle shafts are slightly grooved and oil is pushing past the seals. I will pay more attention to this the next time I pull the axle apart. The second thought, more remote possibility is the more than one size of seals were available and I may have been given the wrong size (ID too large).
Does anyone know if there was more than one part choice for these seals? I have also verified that the axle breather is functioning.
Thanks in advance.
Posting Legend
Joined: Sep 2001
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Hello- Welcome to FTE! I have moved your post to the specialized forum we have here for your question. Check out the list of specialized tech forums we have here for your questions. There is a wealth of information and expertise here to help you. There are a number of links in my sig below to help you also. Have fun! 
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 11,945
Likes: 3
From: Spokane, WA
I believe there are two different styles of seals offered for that axle, one is cupped and one is not. They should both work the same though. To my knowlege there was not another size axle shaft offered in the D44 so you should have no problems there. Clean up the shafts with emery cloth where the seal rides and make sure you put a little lube on the seal before you slide the shaft into place so the splines don't munch the seal. Lastly, be sure the seals are tapped into place evenly. There's a special tool made for installing these seals. You don't really need one but they make it to ensure the seals are pressed evenly. If not they can leak. I found it easiest to use a long bar through the axle tube to tap the seal in place straight on rather from an angle. Hope this helps, let us know what you find when you pull it all apart.
