GM-GMC: 1991 GMC Sierra K 2500 - Rear Axle, emery cloth, gmc sierra


Question

Donut Spring
Hi Goodwrencher,
I'm in the process of replacing a rear axle oil seal.  When I pulled the passenger side axle out, I found a metal spring-like "o-ring(please see attached jpg file)" dangling at the end near the splines.  I can not find reference to this part in any literature or on the Internet.  I am starting to believe someone planted this part just to drive me crazy!!!  Do you know what it is?  By the way, the differential is a 14 bolt with a 9.5" ring gear and semi floating axles.  Any light you may shed on this mystery would be greatly appreciated.

Yours truly,
Thorne

Answer
The part you are referring to I imagine is part of the old seal.  If you look closely at the new one you will see a spring on the inside lip of the seal which keeps the seal in contact with the axle.  Discard it, clean the axle shaft with some very fine emery cloth and lubricate the axle before reinstalling it.  Hope this helps