I was replacing the seals in my Dana 30 and couldn't figure out how to install the new seals. Especially alone. Ejecting the old ones was easy... bash 'em out with the axle. So I came up with my own simple little Dana 30 seal inserter. I'm not sure if this will work with other Dana axles but I guarantee that it works great with the Dana 30!

Parts required:

• 12 inches of 1/2" inch ready rod or equivalent
• 2 - 7/8" flat washers
• 3 - 1/2" inch flat washers
• 2 - 12 mm flat washers (optional)
• 3 - 1/2" inch nuts
• 2 - axle seals

Spin one nut onto the rod to about 2 inches. Install one 1/2" in washer, the 12 mm washer (optional as this is simply a centering aid) and then the 7/8" washer. Add a 1/2" inch washer and then another 1/2" inch nut. Tighten the nuts together making sure the 1/2" washers are centered. Spin the remaining 1/2" inch nut onto the other end of the ready rod to about half way. Slip on the 1/2" inch washer and then the 7/8" washer. 12 mm washer optional.

Place a seal on each end with the metal "cone" facing outwards. Slide the loose washer end into the axle tube so that you can get the "fixed" end of the tool into the other axle tube. Place the seal on the fixed end and start moving the nut outwards. Once the nut is snug pressing the two seals into place make certain everything is square and that the 7/8" washers are centred on the seal and in the bore. Using a 3/4 inch wrench gently tighten the 'loose' end nut pressing the seals into place. Continue to check alignment and press the seals fully into their seats.

Back off the nut far enough to remove the tool and check the seals position. Also check to make certain the tension springs are still wrapped around the inner bore of the seal. Apply some quality grease to the seal surface, install the carrier and then the axles.

- Shayne McGuire

The tool with the "fixed" end assembled and other required parts, including seals.	Tool being installed into the diff.	The tool ready to go with the seals.
Ready to press in the seals.	The tool is pressing the seals into place.
	The seals in place.