Outer axle seal replacement on a 51 Cambridge

[motoMark]

Although not specifically stated in the Plymouth Service Manual, it looks like you need to remove the brake support plate in order to replace the outer axle seal. Is this correct? I have mine disassembled down the the support plate and I see no way of getting the seal out as it is.

Thanks.

[keithb7]

Pull brake backing plate. Collect shims or re-installation. If you're in that far, you should do the inner seal as well. It's all pretty easy.

[Sniper]

Someone recent did this job and there was a discussion for a seal driver that would do the inner seal properly.

 

This might help

 

 

Edited November 5, 2022 by Sniper

[Kilgore47]

Also while you're at it check the vent on the rear axle.  Make sure it's not plugged.  Simple to do.  Just unscrew it so you can check it on the bench.  If the vent is plugged the rear end grease will be forced past the new seals when everything heats up and cover your new brakes with grease.  I learned this lesson the hard way.  

[motoMark]

Thank you all for the tips.

[keithb7]

Sorry about the video quality but shows how I did it:

 

 

Edited November 6, 2022 by keithb7

[keithb7]

 

[motoMark]

I was just wondering how the heck I'm going to get the axle out to get at the inner seal. Thanks Keith!

[Sniper]

Once you get the retainer off it just pulls out.  The service manual shows a puller being used.  You can get a CD from rock auto that has the service manuals and parts manuals on it.  I had to dust off my old XP laptop to copy the CD to a thumb drive.

[keithb7]

My inner seal driver. I found a piece in the scrap metal bin at work. It worked great. I should get my buddy to turn down the middle section on his lathe.  For a hand-hold. Remove some weight too. Its pretty heavy. Nobody will steal it though. And best of all it was cheap!

 

 

Edited November 6, 2022 by keithb7

[motoMark]

In addition to replacing the seals, I think I might replace the shoes too ?. Also, it's a good thing I pulled the axles cause I guess I need bearings too.

 

[Los_Control]

Glad you caught it at home in the garage  

[Art Bailey]

17 hours ago, motoMark said:

In addition to replacing the seals, I think I might replace the shoes too ?. Also, it's a good thing I pulled the axles cause I guess I need bearings too.

 

Isn't it funny how a simple job spirals into 9 or 10 simple jobs?

[motoMark]

 

11 hours ago, ratbailey said:

Isn't it funny how a simple job spirals into 9 or 10 simple jobs?

Yep. The wheel cylinder boots are cracked, so I guess I'll have to replace those too.

[Sniper]

Good news is that you will be set for the next 70 years.