Drivetrain - New Seal Protector for Drive Axle R&R
89pontiac04Bulletin Number: 89-7-20
Reference Number: 977103
Publish Date: 2/89
Subject: AXLE SEAL PROTECTOR TO PREVENT RIGHT SIDE AXLE SEAL DAMAGE DURING DRIVE AXLE INSTALLATION
Models
Affected: 1980 - 1989 MODELS WITH LISTED TRANSMISSIONS
TRANSAXLE APPLICATIONS:
1982-1989 THM 125/HYDRA-MATIC 3T40 (MD9) 1988-1/2-1989 THM A1/HYDRA-MATIC 3T40-A (MD9) 1984-1989 THM 440-T4/HYDRA-MATIC 4T60 (ME9) 1987-1989 THM F-7 1986-1/2-1989 HM-282/HYDRA-MATIC 5TM40 (MG1/MG2) 1980-1987 FX-125 (MUNCIE) (M19) 1981-1987 FX-170 (MUNCIE) (M19)
FIGURE 1 - AXLE SEAL PROTECTOR:
A new low cost disposable Axle Seal Protector (Figure 1) is now available for 1989 and prior models equipped with the above transmissions. The advantage of this Axle Seal Protector is to prevent axle seal damage during installation of the right side Drive Axle. The right side (both sides for some manual transaxles) Drive Axle has male splines and a snap ring groove that can potentially nick or cut the seal when the Axle Seal Protector is not used.
FIGURE 2 - RECOMMENDED INSTALLATION POSITION:
SERVICE ACTION:
Once the transaxle is installed in the car and before the right side Drive Axle is installed, insert sleeve portion of Axle Seal Protector into the Axle Seal (Figure 2). Install with the "T-bar handle" in such a position so that it can be pulled out easily after the Drive Axle is installed. This will be between the 5 to 7 o'clock position, depending on the transaxle and carline. To remove the Axle Seal Protector after the Drive Axle is installed, pull in line with the "T-bar handle". Once removed, ensure that the Axle Seal Protector is intact (no pieces left inside the transaxle). Dispose of the protector, it is not reusable. Note - the Axle Seal should be replaced every time the Drive Axle is removed because the seal can be damaged during removal as well as installation.
Notice - The seal protector must be removed before the car is driven to prevent the protector from deteriorating inside the transaxle causing a leak and requiring Drive Axle removal to correct.
SERVICE TOOL INFORMATION:
The Axle Seal Protectors are available from Kent-Moore for $8.95 per package (price does not include shipping) and can be obtained through Kent-Moore's order department (313) 574-2332 or 1-800-345-2233.
Tool No. Description Package Contents
J 37292-A Package - Seal Protectors
Seal Protectors - 50 in a package