Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

I need to replace the differential pinion seal on my '53. I have not been able to remove the nut that retains the u-joint flange. Is there a special procedure required for removing the nut? (Left hand threads? Keeper of some type?)

Thanks.

It is normal RH threads, and there is no keeper, but it is darn tight. I usually have to hold the flange still with a mungus big pipe wrench I keep for just these occasions. I let the end of it rest on the leaf spring to stop rotation. Then the nut is attacked with a 3/4 drive socket wrench with a long piece of pipe on the handle.

Before you begin, mark the nut, the shaft, and the flange with a punch or some paint so you can put everything back where it was an not mess up the bearing preload.

Incidently, the same pipe wrench is very handy for removing the old seal. Grab the seal by its nose and twist and pull.