Drivetrain - Front Drive Axle Leaks

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Number: 92-202-4D

Section: 4D

Date: MAY 1992

Coporate Bulletin No.: 264302


ASE No.: A3


Subject:
FRONT DRIVE AXLE LEAKS


Model and Year:
1988-92 K1 AND K2 TRUCKS


Some owners of 1988-92 K1,2 (7,200 # GVWR or less) vehicles may comment that their vehicle experiences leaks from the front axle. These leaks may come from three areas:

1) The differential output shaft seals (Figure 1). These leaks may be caused by the outer seal lip riding too far outboard on the axle flange radius, resulting in damage to the seal. The leaks may be corrected by replacing the differential output shaft seals with revised seals (P/N 26031569). The seals have the sealing lips moved inboard 5 mm (0.2 in.) to prevent contact with the axle flange radius.

2) The mating area between the axle tube and the differential housing (Figure 1). These leaks may be caused by flexing of the axle assembly which fractures the sealing material. The leaks may be corrected by cleaning and resealing the axle tube and differential housing mating area, using the RTV Sealant listed under Service Parts Information.

3) The vent hose connector. These leaks may be caused by inadequate sealer applied to the vent connector threads and relaxation of the vent connector material. The leaks may be corrected by replacing the vent hose connector with a revised connector featuring an O-ring seal. Refer to Dealer Service Bulletin No. 91-445-4C for complete details.

SERVICE PROCEDURE:

DIFFERENTIAL SHAFT OUTPUT SEALS:

Refer to the 1992 C/K Service Manual, Section 4C "SHAFT and AXLE TUBE ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT" for the right-hand seal and Section 4C "OUTPUT SHAFT REPLACEMENT" for the left-hand seal. Replace the seals with the redesigned seals (P/N 26031569).

RESEALING OF THE AXLE TUBE TO THE DIFFERENTIAL CASE:

Refer to the 1992 C/K Service Manual, Section 4C "SHAFT and AXLE TUBE ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT" for removal and replacement procedures. Do NOT use the sealant mentioned in the Service Manual, use RTV Silicone (P/N 12345739) instead.

NOTICE:
Care should be used when cleaning the mating surfaces to prevent gouging or damaging the surfaces.

VENT HOSE CONNECTOR:

Refer to Dealer Service Bulletin No. 91-455-4C for parts information and the installation procedure.