Changing Rear Seal on C4

Discussion in 'Ranchero Tech Help' started by colnago, Jun 12, 2019.

  1. colnago

    colnago In Maximum Overdrive

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    The C4 I have in my '64 is leaking out the rear seal. Can I change this without removing the tranny from the Ranchero? I assume I'll have to remove the yoke or U-joint at the end. What else will I have to do? I'll probably make some phone calls to the local tranny shops, just because it would be a lot easier to write a check than it would be to play with this in the driveway.

    Joseph
     
  2. handy_andy_cv64

    handy_andy_cv64 In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    When you say 'rear seal,' do you refer to the yoke seal, or to the tailshaft housing seal? If you refer to the yoke seal, no, it can be done in-car, just by removing the driveshaft. You'll need to make matchmarks on the pinion yoke to the u-joint. Then carefully pry out the old seal, use a big deep socket to tap the new one in, make sure it's straight, and clean/lube the yoke's slip shaft with frest ATF and install.
     
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  3. ForistellFord

    ForistellFord In Maximum Overdrive GOLD MEMBER

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    Don't lost the spring that's in the seal though. Hey, it can happen.
     
  4. colnago

    colnago In Maximum Overdrive

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    Yes, I'm talking about the yoke seal. Do I disconnect the driveshaft from the rear end, then slide it off of the tranny output shaft? I'll have to pull my books out tonight, to see what I'm looking at. Also, should I put silicone around the outside of the new seal, to prevent leaks between the seal and the housing? Good to know that I can do it in the driveway, though.

    Joseph
     
  5. 1965 Ranchero 66G

    1965 Ranchero 66G In Maximum Overdrive Unubtanium Member

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    No silicone the new seal will have a coating on it that looks like paint and it is a tight fit. Yes remove the driveshaft and use a clean catch pan, you will lose some fluid so keep the rear end up as much as is safe. Hardest part is removing the driveshaft, very simple task.

    Skip
     
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  6. TestDummy

    TestDummy In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    Doesn't hurt to get some fine emery cloth and polish up the driveshaft yoke before stuffing it back in there. Also good time to check the u-joints.
     
  7. handy_andy_cv64

    handy_andy_cv64 In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    Easier than trying your shoes. You got this
     
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  8. 1965 Ranchero 66G

    1965 Ranchero 66G In Maximum Overdrive Unubtanium Member

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    Good point but also ck the fit on the yoke with the new seal, if to loose they are adjustable, I would be happy to share how. Very simple.
     
  9. colnago

    colnago In Maximum Overdrive

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    Ummm ... I doubt it, but thanks for the vote of confidence. ;)

    Joseph
     
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  10. TestDummy

    TestDummy In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    Adjustable, how? By putting in a smaller seal?
     
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  11. 1965 Ranchero 66G

    1965 Ranchero 66G In Maximum Overdrive Unubtanium Member

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    Take the spring off of the seal, find the joint where it connects together it will unscrew then cut off a small piece off the flat side and screw it back together put it back on the seal and test for fit by sliding it on the yoke. I've done it many times on my tractor and a couple of cars.
     
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  12. colnago

    colnago In Maximum Overdrive

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    That's a cool tip. I would have never thought about doing something like that.

    Joseph
     
  13. TestDummy

    TestDummy In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    Are you making that up? I've never done that. But to be fair, I've never had a reason to try doing that.
     
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  14. 1965 Ranchero 66G

    1965 Ranchero 66G In Maximum Overdrive Unubtanium Member

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    Absolute truth, first time was on my tractor the seal I got was right OD but a little loose ID, it's been on there for over 10 yrs without even a seep.
     
  15. TestDummy

    TestDummy In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    Tractor I believe. A $4 seal from Advance Auto, on the other hand.
     
  16. 1965 Ranchero 66G

    1965 Ranchero 66G In Maximum Overdrive Unubtanium Member

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    Works in a pinch.
     
  17. handy_andy_cv64

    handy_andy_cv64 In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    The seals for cars are not made for any adjustment, but I'm willing to bet the one for the tractor was made for the fact that getting a replacement seal took a week at that time, and so an adjustable one was called for.
     
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  18. handy_andy_cv64

    handy_andy_cv64 In Maximum Overdrive SILVER MEMBER

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    Anyway, the seal's easy to do. Just make sure you drive it in evenly, and make sure you get the one that has the outer extension rubber to protect the slip yoke from dirt.
     
  19. 1965 Ranchero 66G

    1965 Ranchero 66G In Maximum Overdrive Unubtanium Member

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    The one I did worked fine.
     
  20. 1965 Ranchero 66G

    1965 Ranchero 66G In Maximum Overdrive Unubtanium Member

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    I was not suggesting that he do that to his new ones are readily available, just passing on some tip's.
     

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