8.5" 10 Bolt Outer Axle Seals / Modification

[Scott Vincent]

Iʻm specifically asking about outer axle tube seals for a 10 bolt front. Iʻve found them for D44, but parts arenʻt interchangeable until knuckle and out from what I know. I just cleaned my tubes out and it had a massive buildup of mud and gunk that I had to clean out. I would really like to avoid that buildup going forward, especially since Iʻm dropping a decent amount of money into this axle. Tips, advice, am I wrong about those D44 seals...anything. Thanks guys.

 

[Tank6x2]

I don’t know specifically but You could try measuring inside tube diameter assuming it has a machined edge near the portion your looking to seal off from the elements and measure the axle diameter throw in a full floating axle seal, but being there is little chance of debris getting in the opposite way I really wouldn’t worry about it…

 

[BKING33]

Haven't rebuilt frt diff in a while. I think the axle seals are on inner side of tube by bearing. GM # 6273977. It is discontinued. Cross reference on Napa is a #NOS13165

 

[bucket]

The axle shafts tend to have a little bit of wiggle room, so getting a dust seal to work well and last may be a challenge. Maybe find a seal that fits tight to the housing but only has a flimsy single lip seal against the shaft. I think a good sturdy seal will just get destroyed.