What method have you successfully used to install new seals? A press would be best but most of us probably don't have the equipment needed for that. Using a pipe to drive them in may result in pressing then in cock-eyed and affect the seal integrity.
Without a proper seal driver, I've resorted to a short 2x4 laid over the seal and a hammer. Tap easy at first to make sure they are straight, then whack them in place. I haven't worked on a 1 ton, but that method worked on the axle seals on my '51 1/2 ton. As long as there's space around the seal for the 2x4 to not get hung up, it should work for you.
Kevin 1951 Chevy 3100 work truck Follow this saga in Project Journal Photos 1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car) Busting rust since the mid-60's If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.
I second Kevin's seal driving method. It has worked well for me on a wide variety of small and large seals. Just make sure that the small piece of 2x4 or 2x6 (for larger seals) is larger in dimension than the seal. Once aligned, a single well placed blow with a 3 pound hammer will do the job.
It's also possible to use a piece of all thread rod and a few washers on that 2 X 4 to pull the seal into place, or at least put a little tension on it to keep the seal aligned while the BFH is used to drive it in. Jerry
"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt! There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!
Another tip for you. If you happen to be installing one of these seals with the round spring on the inner lip, more times than not, 2x4 or seal driver, when you pound it in, that spring will pop off. Trying to put it back in place takes a couple of picks and a lot of swear words. To prevent this from happening, coat that spring, the whole circumference, with some wheel bearing grease. It'll keep the spring in place and the grease won't hurt anything if it's an oil filled hub.
50 gmc253 If you can hit it with a hammer,just drive it in till level all aaround or use an oaken board about 1 inch squarex 8 or 10 inches long. Have used an extension 1/2 inch drive,piece of hardwood broom handle is OK. Little smear of GM black silicon on the edge,not rocket science. Drive it in go to truckin' !!
Thanks for the confidence boost! I want it to be done right since I just had my shoes relined after they were apparently contaminated with with a leak. I'll finally be on the road again before I need to drive it onto a trailer for a cross country move from IL to NC.
