I need to replace the pinion seal on a 1990 240.

What kind of locknut/locking washer is on this setup? Is it a large hex nut or some kind of nut with grooves designed for a special tool?

Is holding the pinion flange still while loosening the nut usually done by putting a large bolt with a locknut thru the flange to butt up against some feature on the rear axle case possible?

On the seal, any reccomendations on Volvo vs aftermarket?

I've done this job on Mercedes before, but not a Volvo yet.

Any other suggestions or words of wisdom are appreciated.


David Aidnik

Yeah pretty much as you say. The nut is normal metric hex, just get the right size socket. The pully is locked with special tool or bolt-nut and crowbar etc. Nut will be tight.

I advise Volvo seal, it sucks to have to do the job again. MAKE SURE YOU PUT THE SEAL IN THE RIGHT WAY AROUND!!!. Volvo garage did mine wrong way and I had to replace it again 1/2 year later (no refund!). "OUTSIDE" is stampt on the outside of the seal.

To tighten the nut on completion you will need a torque wrench. If you overtighten the nut a special spacer inside will collapse and the whole differencial will grind itself to death. Not enought torque and it could come loose. Just read the Haynes or Bentleys manual carefully. Use some lock-tight for extra safety.

Fill with synthetics to get a job well done.

Good luck.

Jorn