Help! I’m trying to replace an ‘04 F250 SD SRW 4x4 front axle both sides. Two questions.
1) there is a white 2” guide piece. Is that for left or right side?
2) goes with 1). And Installing Right side. Any tips? We seem to get stuck with about 2” left

thanks

 

In the process of moving axles ,
The side gears in the differential can move, unfortunately enough to prevent the axle from going all the way in.
You might need to take the differential housing cover off and realign the gears so the axle can go into the side gear. Expect the gear lube in the differential to leak out
Make sure you have some gasket maker for when you go to reinstall the differential cover and the correct gear lube.
Some used 75/140 which is synthetic gear lube. If you are that far into the job, you already know where the fill plug is located and the correct level.
Don't forget that gear lube also lubes the axle bearings, so don't drive it without having the level up to where it should be.

 

Thank you greatly! I kind of figured that was the next step. I should've mentioned that I lost track of two parts during removal. One is a white plastic piece that looks to be a guide for liniment. And a bearing seal which I am assuming is the inner. I just ordered two just incase while i remove the cover again. This has been a fun project! Huge delays. Oh well, such as life. Thanks again.

 

Some wheel seals have an internal garter spring to keep the seal in contact with the sealing surface. Make sure when you install that seal that the spring doesn't pop out and you don't see it. The best way to install a large seal like that it with the proper seal installing tool.