mkt478

Does anyone have experience with replacing the rear axle seals on V8 4Runner? I missed out on warranty by about a week. Normally I would tackle the job on my own, however my dealership claims its not possible to change it yourself due to needing special tools to set the seal "just right". Can anyone verify this? I know a 3rd gen isn't too bad to replace, is a 4th much different?

While I'm asking - can anyone recommend a place to purchase / download a PDF of the service manual. $400 is a little steep for the paper version.

Thanks.

mole177

A little late coming in to this, but it seems to be common in the GX 470 crowd, but better late than never.

I saw this done on our 4R. The only "special" tool you will need are small hand/fingers or a specific pair of pliers for the hat looking cover (retaining spring) in the parking brake drum. the only tricky part would be to unhook the parking brake line to take out the leaky side and remember which part goes where and which way!

It's a 50/50 for DIY guys, since it can get messy and have gear oil spill out from the open side of the axle. if you don't mind that, then go for it.

(pliers look similar to this : http://www.alibaba.com/product-gs/45...NG_PLIERS.html )