Leaking front axle seals

[GeoPete]

I replaced both front trans axles on my 94 Geo Metro, 1 L engine, 5 spd Manual. Started to get small leaks from the trans axles. I replaced the right seal and it still leaked. But it seemed to be a small leak and I just kept topping off the transmission with gear oil. Well now it's November and it's getting colder and the leaks are getting larger and coming from both sides.

Checking the web it looks like the right side uses:
National Oil Seal Part No. 222030 or SKF 13624

and the LEFT side uses:
National Oil Seal Part No. 223552 or SKF 13998

Does that sound right? Any preferences between National & SKF seals?

[mike68]

Make sure when you put new seals in you put a little grease or oil on the lip of the seal so it doesn't run dry on the initial run in. I prefer a little wheel bearing grease. Also i'm not sure if those seals have the little metal springs on the inside if they make sure you don't knock them out.

[carpenter_jai]

I think that mike68 is referring to the metal 'c-clips' on the spline end of the drive axles (goes into the differential in the trans.) Sounds like the axles aren't in right. I had some trouble with a loose c clip and lost a lot of gear oil as a result.

So, pull the drive axles, make sure the splines are clean and free of everything but stinky gear oil. Make sure the c-clips are in place in their groove and tight. When you put them back into the diff, you should hear or feel a solid pop. Too test that you got it into the diff correctly, grab the axle by the inner joint and give a tug. *DO NOT full by the axle, you may pull the joint out of the boot.

Jai