right rear axle seal

[allenmichael]

I know I should do both seals,,, hear me out.
Is it possible to with a spring stretcher to remove the right rear axle tube only, with rear end still under car? remove brake rods , brake backer plate, torsion tubes, unbolt right rear axle tube from differential slide off , replace seal , slide back , make sure same gasket width maintained, bolt back to differential?
I would rather not take out drive shaft and such.

 

[rotorwrench]

You must be referring to an early Ford banjo rear axle. The tube can be removed after disconnecting the spring, radius rod, shock absorber, and right rear brake backing plate. The Timken Detroit rear axle for trucks is open drive but it's not quite the same as the old banjo for cars and light pickups. It doesn't have a separate center section.

If it's a banjo then make sure you check the gasket thickness between the axle bell and the center section. Gaskets are used to set up the R&P gears and bearings in them. The whole shaft and carrier assembly will come out but it has to come out the left side if need be.