Front differential axle seal tool

[Flivver250]

I have installed dozens of seals in the front differential (Dana 30) using a large socket and a bunch of extensions, driving them in with a mallet. I have never had difficulty driving them in. I just saw a tool that apparently presses them in from inside the housing. Looks like this tool would be a better application, and I am not fond of whacking my extensions, even though they don't suffer. Have any of you used one of these and if so, how do you like it? I'm a tool junkie and I'll probably get one unless the wise ones here think they are trash.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0078U9NNU/?tag=wranglerorg-20

 

[Lou]

I have used a similar tool when I still worked at a dealer. It worked well but I found it faster to use a pinion bearing installer and a long extension and have someone help me whack it in.

 

[Goatman]

I've had good luck using a proper socket and a length of re-bar with the one end ground down/hammered to fit the 1/2" drive of the socket.

 

[Axeman]

I am usually a fan of having the right tool for the job, but this seems unnecessary when the extensions work so well for the job, especially at $118. I have a single 3' 3/8 drive Snap On extension that lessens the wobbling of using multiple extensions.

 

[Bumble Beep]

I didn't want to hammer it in and wasn't going to pay >$100 for the tool, so here is my solution for <$10...

Worked for me, very smooth install.

 

[Goatman]

I've had poor luck when pulling a seal into place. Could just be me. I seem to be able to hammer/tap a seal in place and have it stay dry a lot better. But that is certainly a great setup for doing the job! Love how many new ideas you can learn on a forum like this

 

[Mike_H]

Add me to the group who made a tool to press them in from inside the housing... Started with a fence turnbuckle, shortened to proper length, made a couple aluminum "pucks" with my hole saws and a drill press. Worked Great! I need to weld it together because I don't trust the epoxy, but it worked for the two I needed to install.