This is off a TJ D30. The seal seats against the lip exactly as it does in a JK D30. I'll be surprised if a JK D44 is any different. I can't imagine how you could properly seat the seal if there's not a positive lip to press it against ...

 

Not sure on the brand. It had a wider base. No matter how it was positioned.. It would kick of center.
I have a few ideas to try next time around.
You're right ... Here is a pic I just snapped now that a seal is out.
There is a transition but it's back pretty. I am going to try later with a used seal. Honestly, I don't see the seal going in that far unless that's where it's supposed to go?
I can not find any pics of a Jk/front seals.



2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed

 

Yep... Exactly my thoughts. Crap... I will
Measure later on.. DUH.. Never thought about it.



2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed

 

I think you'll be in good shape with the Yukon tool.

 

Thanks for the help. I will post my results.
Question.... I see black RTV used in some seal installations. Wondering what the importance is ?


2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed

 

Interesting find

Looking at the seal I removed and new Mopar seal, there's a difference between the 2
The radius in the middle is not tight (or coined when pressed)
From the back side, a socket/press can't center on this surface. It rocks back and forth. Explains why I had a hard time keeping the press straight.
Wondering if this seal was manufactured in-correctly.




2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed

 

Perhaps, though I have seen some posts about a redesigned seal. As for sealer on the seal seat (RTV or whatever): I didn't use any. If you use, do so very sparingly--I wouldn't apply more than the thinnest of layers to the outside of your new seal. Inspect carefully after install and wipe up any residue. You don't want a glob of that wandering around in your differential.

 

Screw that .. Grease will work. Haha


2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed

 

Update:
Received the yukon tool yesterday, also had something put together at work.
Using the original seal and the DIY press, I was able to knock it in flush... Worked pretty good actually. Then with the Yukon press i pushed it in further. This time a 1/4 into the axle and there was nothing there to seat it.
Just kept being pushed in future and further.
That answered my question

Popped that seal out and tried the new one. The one that was crooked .050 or so.
Again .. Used the DIY tool to sit flush with the tube. W/ the Yukon tool a bit past the chamfer. Looks to be maybe .020 but doable.

If I don't receive the new seals I ordered TODAY ..this one is being run. I just don't see them going in absolutely perfect is even possible.


2007 Rubicon /2 door/6 speed

 

Yup, axle grease will work, and a glob of it in your axle wont hurt a damn thing.....