How bad is replacing tranny output flange seals?

Rick Lee · Rick Lee's Garage

SC had been parked for a week in a garage and there was no puddle when I went to get her yesterday. Drove home about 15 miles and let it sit for an hour or two. Went back out and found about a tablespoon of Swepco on the driveway as I was backing out. Came home, put a pan under the car and found another TBSP this morning. Dropped the SC off at the shop this morning for diagnosis, as I don't have much wrenching time left before Mid Ohio. Initial diagnosis is leaky output flange seals. Sounds like this requires removing CV bolts and some contortionist work, but with engine and tranny in place. Before they call me back with an estimate, anyone wanna tell me this is a super easy, quick DIY job (like under 3 hrs) or guess how much it will cost? Thanks.

john_colasante · 04-21-2005, 11:40 AM

It's pretty easy. First you take off the axles. There is one bolt holding the flange on. Once it is removed the flange slides out and the seal is pryed off. The only trick would be getting the new seal on straight, but it should not be a big deal.

oneblueyedog · oneblueyedog's Garage

I've done it on a 914 and a 78 911sc. Like John says, the trick is getting the seal in straight. Do a search, there might be a trick pvc tool.

Save your sewpco in a clean catch pan. Lube the lips of the seal before you put the drive flanges back in so they don't friction burn.

Get new cv flange bolts and Schnor washers. Torque them and then check them at 1000 mi.

Might take 4 hours.

Rick Lee · Rick Lee's Garage

Ok, just got the call and the est. is $268. Kills me to pay this when I could spend that money on ammo and booze, but it's a my time vs. my money issue now and I have to have my car pronto for other stuff before Mid Ohio. Thanks guys.