Found this thread, https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/r...l-check-101140. It talks about the proper location of the spacer rings or collars. I am not yet completely clear how to measure (currently reseaching this), but this shows that the location of the collar is critical. I took pictures of the setup before taking it to the shop, but did not measure (shame on me!). I remember seeing the gap between the ABS wheel and the outer spacer, though.

 

Never mind, I think I found my answer. This thread, https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/a...sition-218503/, shows how to measure - awesome. The other idea is to measure the depth of the seal in the axle and this should "match" the location of the collar.

 

That could be a factor. But remember, we measured the factory position of the inner axle seal before we removed it and found it was not seated at the "bottom" of its' recess point in the axle.

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Finally, got my axles and installed them on Saturday. Measured the position of the retainer collar and seem to be in the right place. So far so good, but will have to wait couple weeks to know if there is no leak.... hope so!
Installing the seal on the other side I tried the freezing method with no success. What worked best was to tap the seal slowly one side at the time. I used a broken seal driver that had about half the disk broken. This allowed me to tap one side at the time. DO NOT USE a smaller piece because you will damage the seal. The half disk worked perfect. After the seal was about half way in, I then finished with a full seal driver disk.
I also installed the new springs/shocks (see my other threads for more info and pics).

 

great info Tony-a wealth of information and links to related threads

 

100 miles today since the new seals and no leaks.... knock... knock.