4 Wheel Drive/SUVs: 2001 for explorer sport 4x4, ford explorer sport, cv axles

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2001 ford explorer sport 4x4 with a leaking right rear axel seal. I was wondering how to remove the axel to replace the seal. I think it just bolts in and I do not have to remove the rearend cover but I am not sure. Any help will be great. This will be my first time doing this but I do have a good mechanical ability. Thanks

ANSWER: Jeffrey,

Typically, the CV axles in the rear of a vehicle press in by use of a snap ring that just clicks into place and the yust have to be pried out just be careful when trying this as to not damage the rear end housing. Then a seal puller from the local auto parts store will remove the seal and you can replace it in reverse order

matt

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QUESTION: When doing this do I have to remove the rearend cover? Is the snap ring on the outside by the parking brakes or in the housing with the rest of the gears? So far it does not sound to bad. Thank you for your help.

ANSWER: I don't think you will have to remove the rear end cover to get it out. See there were different types in those years and I am assuming it has halfshafts in the rear (independant rear suspention). so I am still a little unclear as to what axle you have. If it is a solid axle that has the housing going all the way to the wheels you will have to remove the rear end cover to get it out. so if you can tell me what rear end you have I can better help you. I just need to know if the housing is one piece to the wheels or if it has seperate axles to the wheels

Matt

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QUESTION: Sorry I should have told you. It is a solid axel. It goes all the way to the wheels. Thanks for all the help.

Answer
No problem, All you will have to do is remove the cover locate the pin in the rear carrier assymbly and one side will have a blot in the end. remove the bolt and pull the pin out, no fear though nothing will come apart doing this. Push the axle at the wheel in a bit and the go back underneath and there will be a "c" clip on the axle end. Pull it out and remove the axle and you can get right to the seal and bearing

Matt

P.S. this is a good time to do both seals and axle bearings as well. Not to expensive and will save you the grief of doing it again later