I have alot of questions about a leaking front axle seal on my 2000 excursion with the v10. Took to my mechinic today to check front end for vibration problem and he discovered a leaking front axle seal. I have searched the forums for the info I need but can't seem to find it so I am hoping somebody can help. First question is do I have a Dana 50 or 60 axle thats what the parts store ask. Second are these the same axles as in the super duty trucks. Third when my mechinic looked the job up on his computer program it said that the job required 4 special tools to replace the axle seal is this true or can you make what you need. Would I be better off taking this job to a stealership I hate the places but if thats what I have to do so be it. If you guys could provide any links that would help and maybe some part numbers that would be the greatest. This seems to be one of the most friendly and helpful forums I have been on. P.S. He said that everything else is good and tight so I don't need anything else done. Thanks for any help you can provide.

 

I'd make sure the axle vent is clear, that can cause a leak.

 

mark a. brings up a great point.
I might try to add to this, and bring up soma additional, or potential problems that might lead to a leak.
The front axles are not always turning, so a leaky front axle is not that common. However, sometimes lack of use can cause this.
That being said, you may have a faulty ESOF system, and this can be a product of a bad or stuck locking hub assembly. You have no idea how many ESOF equiped SD's and Excursions I see running down the freeway with the front axles turning (this includes the front D-shaft).
Since the shafts are not suposed to always turn, the wear on parts should be limited to almost nothing. (although if they spun all the time, I do not see them wearing out any faster, but for the sake of arguement, we will go this direction)
A seal installation tool is required, but these can also be made. Mine requires two people to operate. One to hold the tool, and the other to drive the hammer.
Those inner seals are a bit of a chore to replace. Keep this iin mind. The entire axle has to be disassembled.
You have a Dana 50 up front since you have an Excursion. My understanding is that this is the only axle that was ever available up front.
Part numbers should be the same as a 99 to 02 SD with a SRW configuration.
Checking the vent is a good idea, but this would require heat to build up from actual use, and if the lockouts are functioning properly, the axles should not turn, and if they do not turn, they cant create any heat. Pressure might not be forcing the leak, if the hubs are truly unlocked.
Just a few things to check.

 

Thanks for the great post and all the info, I will defintly check the vent. So I understand this a little better when the ESOF is in 2WD position the front drive shaft should not be turning when going down the road. When you say the entire axle has to be dissassembled do you mean third member and all have to come out or just the axle it self? I don't off road at all just use it for wifes daily driver and vacation travel, Have any idea what might have caused it to leak? It has 81000 miles on it. Thanks again for all the help

 

Well my regular mechenic did not feel comfortable doing the job so I took to stealership and had it done. Just had them repalces all seals while it was down and got treated good for a change. Don't feel like I got it you know where. Thanks again for all the help.

 

Did you fix the vibration problem that might have caused the seal problem?

 

I am working on that now going to have tires road force balanced tomorrow. I have a slight vibration between 60 and 75 MPH, does anybody think this is what caused the seal leakage or was it just its time to go? be interested to see what you think on this. Mechenic says that after he looked at front end and drove it he says its a tire problem.