I would not lock tight the nut if I were you. If that seal ever goes bad again your screwed. I didn't lock tight mine and it hasn't started leaking since I've done it (3 months).

One more thing, I put marine grease in the seal where the washer touches it. I don't know if it matters or not but I saw some grease on the old seal.

 

Thanks for the reply. Forgot one question. When i pulled the yoke off, there was a round spring about 1" in diameter floating around behind the oil seal. I dont see it any where on the parts exploded view. Any Idea? I figured maybe its part of the seal but not sure

 

I didn't have a spring on mine but its not a big bear (still a yamaha so very little difference). If its not on the part diagram then take it out and say the hell with it. Don't worry about it if its not suppose to be there.

Are you the original owner? A picture will also be helpful if you are really concerned about it.

 

Welcome Tribeal,
What year machine front or rear drive shaft?

 

Hi and thanks. It's a 2000 big bear 400 4x4. I am the original owner. Pretty sure this has never been apart. I did break the rear drive shaft when it was just a few months old (covered under warranty) but I wouldn't guess they would have any reason to remove the yoke.

 

Bet you that spring was the tension spring that goes around the inside of the oil seal. The spring compresses the oil seals sealing lip to maintain constant pressure to seal around the yoke shaft.

 

Can you replace the seal from the outside or do you have to split the transfer case and replace it from the inside?

Whenever you retorque that puppy, do it well! I tightened mine but apparently not enough because it still leaks a little. seal replacement might be my next step.

 

once I got the yoke off I was able to pop the seal out no problem.

 

The manual indicates a little loctite and 70 LB torque on the yoke nut.
Make sure that you fill the lip or groove on the inside of the seal with lithium grease.

 

what year of BB is this?

 

Mine is a 2000 year model