Obvious front wheel seal leak on 3320 4WD

[sgtstew]

2008 JD 3320, 4WD, 595 hrs. w/loader.

I have noticed fluid visibly leaking from the left front wheel outer hub, as it runs down the outside of the wheel, made more visible by the collection of dust and dirt that clings to the damp surface. It is very slight, taking many days to be noticeable on the dip stick. Obviously, the outer seal has started to fail. Can one conclude that perhaps the outer bearing is also going bad, and allowing excessive lateral motion on the axle shaft. Basic question; is the removal and replacement of either the seal individually, or both the bearing and the seal a task that can be done by an average owner, or should it be sent to the dealer shop? Also, is this a common flaw or hopefully, an isolated event?

 

[Zebrafive]

Looking on jDparts the outer seal LVA16814 replaces LVU10836. It looks like the seal has been redesigned, so maybe old design was a problem.

 

[moship]

It's very likely that if the seal is bad the bearing is also bad. A few weeks I replaced the bearing on my neighbors Kubota. The seal leaked badly and the bearings were gone. Had to replace the outer housing and spindle assembly. I know you have a different brand, but the front axle is not all that different. Good luck and keep your fingers crossed it is only the seal.

 

[CorporateOffRoader]

I just did my left front seal a couple of weeks ago (http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/john-deere-owning-operating/294081-front-wheel-seal-replacement-3320-a.html) and if you have a shop press, it is pretty easy. My leak was gradual like yours, and the bearing looked perfect. The seal is completely different, more stout than the one that I removed. Be sure to read the instructions that come with the seal, their is a measured amount of stickout of the seal from the outside surface. The seal kit includes the directions. Now that I have done one, I think I could do the other side in less than an hour. The seal was $32 maybe? so I will wait until the other side begins to leak. If you can use a shop press, you can do this one yourself.