When swapping 3rd members I know you can get away with only pulling the axles out a few inches so they will clear the 3rd member which is what I would like to do when I swap 3rd members. My question is when you pull the axles should you always replace the inner axle seals? Or if you don't will you have a problem with them creating a good seal when you slide the axles back? I know there have been problems on 4runners with them leaking however mine have been good thus far (120k miles). How long theoretically should they last? Or are they considered a normal maintenance item that you will have to replace eventually?

Also, for the 3rd memeber I got a Toyota Gasget but is it a good idea to use some kind of sealer as well?

Thanks for your guys' help!

 

I've had to remove my 3rd twice and both times I never replaced the axle seal, and there doesn't appear to be any leaks.

I bought a Toyota gasket for my 3rd member too (a ripoff at 8 bucks if you ask me) and the damn thing ripped in 10 different places while I tried to get it on. I just used silicone instead, and so far it's worked great. Been 6 months and no leaks at all.
Good luck!

 

My understanding is that pulling the axles out only a little way is the guaranteed method for ruining the seals. All the weight of the axle winds up resting on the seal with the axle slanted. I believe it is best to either fully remove the axle or support it so that the weight isn't be carried by the seal.

 

the question is, why would you not take the axle shaft completely out and not risk seal damage? its hardly any more difficult than just sliding it out a few inches.

 

You actually risk more damage pulling the axle all the way out. It's easy for the splines to damage the seal. I've done this a dozen times and never had a seal problem and I've never supported the axles, but it IS best to support the axles while they're pulled out.

I get gaskets from the auto parts store (never buy anything from the stealer) for $3, but they really aren't needed. Silicone works fine - just clean both surfaces.

 

It is always recommended to replace the seals when you have it apart. They don't cost that much and you might as well replace them while you've got it all apart...especially if they're original.

Most people recommend to pull the axles all the way out and not let them rest on the seal.

 

I might be wrong but from what I have heard you can slide the axles out a little bit and leave the brakes connected and not have to go through the trouble of bleeding the brakes.

 

Nope.
Well, you probably *could* but you would have to bend the metal brake lines to do it, and that's not a good idea. If you kink one you'll hate yourself... Get some nipples like they use to plug off unneeded vacuum ports and stick on the brake lines to limit the loss. Then bleed the brakes when done.