M38A1 front alignment?

[rob love]

You can get away with that diff flange. We would normally just polish the surface with some extra fine crocus cloth, and if the groove was still there, install the seal to a different depth than before.

[Casey B]

Thanks Rob I'll try it this weekend!

[Casey B]

Okay I managed to get the transfer case rear seal out and there seemed to be a this piece of what looked like a gasket that was between the seal casing and the housing that the seal fits into. Is this a gasket or a piece of the seal itself? pic shows the piece and the housing.

I tried to get a part no off it I can see 2?0WM118

If anyone knows what it should be it will help them source it out...napa lordco etc. Thanks

[rob love]

That is a washer, non-metallic, paper, .040 thick, pn (victor gasket co) 26301. In other words it is a gasket that goes behind the seal to prevent the oil from sneaking around the outer edge of the seal. That was in the days before RTV. Put a slight film of rtv (automotive silicone...Room Temperature Vulcanizing) on the outer edge of your seal before installing and you'll be fine. Throw away the paper washer.

If you really want to be original, you can get some .040 thick gasket paper and cut one, but you really don't need it. Also, it will only work if your seal is a double sided case like what you took out. Most likely your new seal is a more modern single lip and open on the inside. The gasket will likely do nothing on that type of seal.

[Casey B]

Hey thanks Rob. I have some of the parts ready at the store but others are on the way.
I figured the seal was ancient. I know to put some grease in the spring side as well but will most likely put the seal in while the whole unit is on the bench, then re install the unit.
maybe will have it ready for the Lions football game tomorrow for the veterens...? We'll see...?

[rob love]

The reason you put the grease on the inside is to prevent the spring from popping off while you are driving it in. Don't overdo the grease.

There should be shims in between the housing you removed and the transfer case. They are what set the bearing preload. Make sure they are clean and re-install all of them.

[Casey B]

Yes there was one shim. I did clean it and it is ready to put back in. Yes sparing the grease. I did get the same seal you suggested for the pinion the 5778. It has the goop on the rear part of the seal housing...I'll put some rtv on it anyway..on the sides... Thanks for the heads up Rob!