Pinion Seal Replacement
If there is oil leaking from around the end of the drive shafts (front or rear) there is an easy fix. If the leak is occurring on the 3rd members (or pumpkins) and close to the drive shafts then you need a new pinion seal. Very inexpensive and it takes about 1 hour (going very slowly) Here is what you do:
Go to Sears and buy a Seal puller $8 (Optional- but A very worth
while investment)
Buy new front pinion seal from Toyota (it really is better quality)
Buy new Pinion Nut (tecnically optional, but highly recommended)
Remove Front portion of front drive shaft
Find big socket to fit big nut on pinion flange
Remove nut Take note how it is staked (dented part of Nut on notch of pinion
shaft) (you may also want to lock the hubs to make removal easier) You will
probably need a cheater bar or breaker bar. The nut will be Very tight.
Remove Flange
Use seal puller to pop out old seal (you can also use a screwdriver but it is
more difficult)
Tap new seal into place with even bigger socket or piece of wood. Very slowly.
Do not dent it. Have patience it could take some time because they tend to slip
out. (dont get frustrated, think happy thoughts)
Once seal is in, grease the rubber lip a little bit if it isnt already.
Replace pinion flange
Put on new nut (120 Ft lbs)
Stake it (Dent the nut in to the notch)
Unlock Hubs
Reattach front drive shaft