Hey everyone. I'm in the process of replacing the pinion seal in an 03 Cobra IRS. I got the seal in but I can't get the flange to seat properly. I've tried to clean all the silicon out of the teeth from the previous owner. The flange stops maybe 1/16 of an inch from being completely seated. I've tried running down the old but to force it, and an 8lb sledge and 2x4. I've also removed the flange 4 times to check for debris or damage. Need help
Pinion flange
- Thread starter jwhisl
- Start date
Ok, so very first thing, please stop hitting it with a hammer. You’re going to damage the teeth on your pinion gear if you haven’t already.
Next, the pinion flange should not have silicone in it. Inspect your flange very closely and see why they did that.
The flange should not go on easily. It has to be pulled in to place by the pinion nut. The flange should go on, maybe half way by hand and then use the nut to pull it on the rest of the way.
The previous owner was trying to stop a leak. I've tried using the nut and even an impact. I've removed the pinion 4 times now and inspected for damage each time. I'm waiting to hear back from someone that might come out and look it over.
If it’s been leaking this long, something is wrong and you probably need a new pinion flange.
Do you have the rear cover off?
It sounds like the outer pinion bearing may not be seated straight on the pinion shaft.
You may have to pull the seal out and remove the outer pinion bearing, then reinstall it and make sure it’s straight. Don’t forget the oil slinger that goes behind the seal.
cobrajeff96
Well-Known Member
Don't go too heavy with the impact on the pinion nut, you'll change pinion depth because of the crush sleeve.
