Front Axle Help

[cyclonestroker]

I got down a pretty nasty Level C road this past weekend and had to go to 4x4 to get through it. When I got back on to hard surface I heard what sounded like sheet metal hitting the ground so I got out to inspect and this is what I found (pic below).

Can anyone tell me exactly what it is that needs fixed, and if I can do it myself? I'm not afraid to jump in and do the work, I just don't want to get in there only to find out there's specialty tools I need.

Any help is appreciated!

[KingStroker]

If what you are referring to is the "gasket/seal" type thing in the picture, it's just a dust cover and almost every truck i look at they are loose like that. i've been told over and over again that it won't hurt a thing???? Good luck

[cyclonestroker]

I popped the wheel of today and messed with it a little bit, there is some play in the axle. Not much but some. Any clue if it's supposed to be like that?

[sinner6.0L]

yeah, you will have a little play in the axle, that's normal

That seal is replaced by a new seal that presses into the axle housing (instead of on to the axle shaft). I wouldn't bother changing it unless you have the hub or knuckle off for whatever reason.

[Coach73]

Mine looks like that too! Both sides. Coach

[Dirty_Stroke]

Mine looks like that too. It won't hurt anything, they simply block dirt and dust from entering the axle tube. You have an axle seal inside the differential also, so its mainly a preventative thing.

[fharen]

Mine has been that way for 10,000 miles

[Chad29860]

Thats normal with these trucks and yes there are special tools for installing the big seals on the outer axle and in most cases when taking the front axles apart they need to be changed. I would run it and like said before change it when you have to tear it down for something else.

[cyclonestroker]

Alright great, thanks for the help guys! I might get in and replace it then when I go to put Warn hubs in.

[fharen]

Originally Posted by cyclonestroker

Alright great, thanks for the help guys! I might get in and replace it then when I go to put Warn hubs in.

I don't think they make warn hubs for 2005+