I have to replace the driver's side CV axle on my 05 Prius (long story, my fault). Anyhow, I'm trying to replace the transmission seal and I CAN'T GET THE NEW SEAL IN!!!! Of course, I feel like the seal isn't the right size, but I'm sure it's just me being dumb. Has anyone else experienced this? Is there a driver that I have to use to press it in? From my perspective, the lip that slides into the tranny flares out, making it even harder to press in. I'm stuck on this one after a couple of days of knuckle-busting. Any insight would be appreciated.
One trick used in the motorcycle world on tough wheel bearing seals is to put the bearing in a zip lock bag and place in the freezer for 24hrs to slightly constrict its size and, in especially tough instances, also heat up the wheel hub with a torch to expand it. They usually go right in after that. Use the old bearing placed on top of the new bearing to pound in if necessary.
Love the freezer trick. That works on bolts too with freeze spray you cant get out of the engine. Like JC said hope your using the factory seal. I would not attempt to do it with after market crap. Yes I think it needs a driver to get it in a SST toyota tool. To the op go on toyotatechinfo.com and rent a one day sub to the factory manual its pretty cheap. Get your printer ready to go. See what the procedure is. Driver and bore needs lubrication and don't scratch the bore or your screwed.
Was the old one leaking? Most seals can be driven in with a piece of PVC pipe, a 2x4 or 4x4 trimmed to allow it to fit, or even a large socket. You MUST press it in on the outer edge or flange of the seal, any pressure in the inner area will damage the seal.
