GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Geo 🢒 1997 🢒 Prizm 🢒 Transmission/Transaxle 🢒 Automatic Transmission - 3 Speed-MB3 🢒 Front Axle Shaft Seal Replacement

Tools Required

    • J 35553 Differential Side Bearing Seal Installer
    • J 36850 Transmission Assembly Lubricant
    • J 26941 Pinion Shaft and Countergear Bearing Cup Remover
    • J 23907 Slide Hammer

Removal Procedure
  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

    2. Object Number: 242867 Size: SH
  2. Remove 6 bolts and left splash shield (1) from the vehicle.
  3. Remove the front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  4. Remove the drive axle from the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.

    5. Object Number: 242944 Size: SH
  5. Remove the drive axle shaft fluid seal (1) from the transaxle using the J 26941 with the J 23907 .
  6. Inspect the differential-side joint surface of the drive axle assembly where the drive axle makes contact with the drive axle shaft fluid seal.
  7. If damage to the differential-side joint is evident, replace the differential-side joint.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 242942 Size: SH
  1. Install the new drive axle shaft fluid seal (1) into the transaxle:
    2. • On the driver's side, use the J 35553 and a hammer.
    • On the passenger's side, use a hammer and a socket.
  2. Apply J 36850 to the new drive axle shaft fluid seal lip.
  3. Install the drive axle into the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.
  4. Install the front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

    5. Object Number: 242867 Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  5. Install the left splash shield (1) to the vehicle. Secure the splash shield with the 6 bolts.

    6. Tighten
    Tighten the left splash shield bolts to 5 N·m (44 lb in).

  6. Lower the vehicle.
  7. Refill the transaxle, as necessary Refer to Transmission Fluid Check .