2000 F-350 - Front axle

[rascal]

I am preparing to do my hubs /ball joints soon I was looking around and noticed that in the axle housing on the drivers side it looks as though a rubber gasket/ring has come loose. I am not sure what this part is called; appears to be a bearing of some sort. How hard is it to replace this assembly when I do the hubs? My Haynes manual does not really say anything about it.

Has anyone had to do this?

Thanks

[eldogo]

I think its a axle seal. I replaced both outers the last time I did brakes.

[NoRalPh]

It's called the "Dust Seal" and is NOT an axle seal. In fact, it's barely a seal at all! The actual axle seal, that keep in the gear oil, is in the center section. The dust seal is more about keeping pebbles out of the tube when you forge a stream

Most of them are shot pretty quickly because the axle moves around so much in that tube (it's supposed to) But, for the $8 it costs, while you're in there, you might as well replace it...

[rascal]

I will definitely be replacing it. Thank you for the responses!

[rascal]

After looking into this further I found that after 2005 Ford upgraded the plastic outer axle shaft seals to a part made from steel rather than plastic.

Just want to ask if anyone knows if there is a steel replacement for my truck.

Planning my install 2 weeks from now and want to make sure I get the best part.

Thanks