I posted a question before regarding the sandblast prep work for my 8.5" 10 bolt posi I just bought. After the media-blast, everyone mentioned I need to replace the oil seals on the axle shafts, pinion and bearings. After reading the "rearend rebuild for rookies" post, I am now very intimidated with this task. Does replaceing the seals require a pro with special tools and machine shop work, or is this suggestion just for changing gears?
Is there anyone who can recommend a good website where I can see an exploded view of a 8.5" 10 bolt drum to drum? I don't have the engine manuals or any good references for this rear and I don't know what the individual part names are everyone is referring to.
I appreciate everyone's help.
thanks

------------------
jack
Ft.Lauderdale, FL
gold #163

Replacing the axle shaft seals will be pretty easy. Remove the shafts (requires removing the rear cover on a Chev axle) and pull out the old seals. At this time you should look at the bearing surface of the shafts (if a Chev axle) and consider new bearings that are known as "axle savers" which move the rollers onto a fresh part of the shaft.The axle savers will have new seals already in place. For the pinion seal, you will need to mark the end of the pinion and the nut so they can be rotated back into precise alignment when re-assembling. Remove the nut and pull the yoke and yank the seal. Reverse the process and watch the nut to pinion markings carefully.

Use a piece of PVC pipe or some other round object to tap the seals back into place. Do not hit them directly with a hammer or mallet. Also, when I replaced my tranny seal, I put grease into the "pocket" behind the seal itself to provide some lubrication. Some seals come already greased, some don't. This is a fairly straightforward job and nothing like setting up a rear end!