AXLE SEAL PROTECTOR TO PREVENT SEAL DAMAGE DURING INSTALL

MODELS AFFECTED: ALL 1980-89 BUICKS WITH FRONT WHEEL DRIVE

BULLETIN COVERS

A new low cost disposable Axle Seal Protector (Figure 1) is now available for all 1980-89 Buicks with front wheel drive. The advantage of this Axle Seal Protector is to prevent axle seal damage during installation of the right side Drive Axle. The right side (both sides for some manual transaxles) Drive Axle has male splines and a snap ring groove that can potentially nick or cut the seal when the Axle Seal Protector is not used.

SERVICE ACTION

Once the transaxle is installed in the car and before the right side Drive Axle is installed, insert sleeve portion of Axle Seal Protector into the Axle Seal (Figure 2). Install with the "T-bar handle" in such a position so that it can be pulled out easily after the Drive Axle is installed. This will be between the 5 to 7 o'clock position, depending on the transaxle and carline. To remove the Axle Seal Protector after the Drive Axle is installed, pull in line with the "T-bar handle". Once removed, ensure that the Axle Seal Protector is intact (no pieces left inside the transaxle). Dispose of the protector, it is not reusable. Note - the Axle Seal should be replaced every time the Drive Axle is removed because the seal can be damaged during removal as well as installation.

IMPORTANT: The seal protector must be removed before the car is driven to prevent the protector from deteriorating inside the transaxle causing a leak and requiring Drive Axle removal to correct.

SERVICE TOOL INFORMATION

The Axle Seal Protectors are available from Kent-Moore for $8.95 per package (price does not include shipping) and can be obtained through Kent-Moore's order department (313) 574-2332 or 1-800-345-2233.

Tool No. Description Package Contents --------- J 37292-A Seal Protectors - 50 in a package

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.