Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential for torque specs and specific procedures.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Safely support the vehicle.
* Wheel Chocks: Prevent accidental rolling.
* Lug Wrench: Remove the wheels.
* Impact Wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing axle nuts much easier. If you don't have one, you'll need a very large breaker bar and potentially a cheater pipe (use extreme caution).
* Sockets and Wrenches: Various sizes, including those for axle nut, drain plug, and differential cover bolts.
* Drain Pan: To catch gear oil.
* Gear Oil: The correct type and quantity for your differential (check your owner's manual).
* Seal Driver/Installer: Essential for properly installing the new seals without damaging them. There are specific tools for axle seals; improvising can lead to damage.
* Pry Bar (or slide hammer): To help remove the axle shafts (may not be needed depending on how easily they come out).
* Penetrating Oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted or stuck bolts.
* Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect yourself from oil and debris.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Clean rags or shop towels: To clean up spills and keep things clean.
Steps (General Outline – Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake, chock the wheels, and securely support the vehicle on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel and Brake Components: Remove the wheel, then the brake caliper and rotor (support the caliper to prevent it from hanging by the brake line). You may need to unbolt the brake lines, depending on the setup; if so, ensure you don't damage them and may need a line-holding tool.
3. Drain the Differential: Remove the differential cover's drain plug and let the gear oil drain completely into your drain pan.
4. Remove the Differential Cover: Carefully remove the differential cover bolts. The cover may be sealed with a gasket, which will likely need replacing.
5. Remove the Axle Shaft(s): This is often the trickiest part. You'll need to remove the axle nut(s). The impact wrench is invaluable here. Once the nut is off, you may need to gently tap or pry the axle shaft out of the differential. This varies depending on your specific model. *Again, refer to your repair manual.* You might need to remove the retaining clips holding the axle in the differential case.
6. Replace the Axle Seals: Use the seal installer tool to carefully install the new seals, avoiding damage. Push them in straight and evenly.
7. Reinstall the Axle Shaft(s): Carefully slide the axle shafts back into the differential, ensuring they're seated properly.
8. Reinstall the Differential Cover: Install a new gasket (if needed) and reattach the differential cover, tightening the bolts to the specified torque (from your repair manual).
9. Reinstall Axle Nuts: Tighten the axle nuts to the correct torque specification.
10. Reinstall Brake Components and Wheel: Reinstall the rotor, caliper, and wheel.
11. Refill Differential: Add the correct type and amount of gear oil. Check your owner's manual or a parts store for the correct oil.
12. Check for Leaks: After refilling, inspect for any leaks around the seals and differential cover.
Important Notes:
* Torque Specifications: Incorrect torque can damage the differential or axle. Always use a torque wrench and follow the specifications in your repair manual.
* Axle Nut Torque: This is especially crucial; over-tightening can damage the axle.
* Gasket Replacement: Always replace the differential cover gasket.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly installed seals can lead to serious damage.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1997 S10 Blazer 4x4 before attempting this repair. This information is for guidance only and does not substitute for professional mechanical advice.
