rear axle seal replacement

[69280sl]

Can someone advise the actual (preferred) or book time to replace the seal between the differential and the r.h. support tube, with a new split boot.

Also, any particular tips or cautions/

Gus
68 280sl

[JimVillers]

Gus .... I can't comment on "book time" but you should be able to do it in a long afternoon.  The trick is to remove the fuel tank to gain access.  The other alternative is to drop the rear end and I find that the fuel tank is easer than driveshaft, springs and brake lines.

When installing the split boot, the split goes at 9:00.  That is facing to the rear in the middle of the axle.  I use weather strip rubber adhesive in the split and then the hog nose clamps.  Be sure all oil is out of the split before gluing (use plenty of brake cleaner).



Jim Villers
190SL, 230SL 5-Speed, 190E 2.3-16 Kompressor, MGB 5-Speed

[jlennon3]

I have a "procedure" for installing the split boot I'd written up a while back. Will be happy to send it to your email if you'd like.

[69280sl]

Thanks, Jim Villers for the tips, especially to remove the fuel tank, and thanks John Lennon for the write-up (which also mentions removing the fuel tank).

Whether I do it myself or have a shop do it, this is good and welcome information that should result in a better job.

Gus

[tuultyme]

I replaced my split boot a couple winters ago without removing anything extra.  I made sure all residual oil was removed after draining rear oil.  The hardest part was putting on the staples.  Three hour clean up; two to put together.

Bruce; 268Blaugrun(green) 1970 280SL; IL