SKF 18444 Differential Pinion Seal - Front or Rear

SKF Rear Differential Pinion Seal for Rear Axle

SKF Differential Pinion Seal 18444 is a rear axle seal built for the pinion area where the driveshaft enters the differential. It is specified for rear applications on Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Jeep Wagoneer models listed below.

Key Features

• Part number: 18444
• Brand: SKF
• Product type: Differential pinion seal
• Position: Rear
• Sealing surface type: Polyacrylate
• Outside diameter: 2.754 in
• Width: 0.313 in
• Shaft diameter: 1.844 in
• Built to SKF design and material standards for axle sealing applications

Product Details

SKF 18444 is a rear differential pinion seal for the rear axle, engineered around the listed dimensions and sealing surface type to help maintain proper lubricant retention at the pinion shaft. SKF has a long history in seal design, including early integrated shaft seal development, and this part reflects that focus on application-specific construction and material selection. It is a direct-fit style seal for Jeep rear axle service where the pinion seal is the service point.

This part cross-references Mopar 83504946 for the same application. SKF 18444 is also referenced by several aftermarket and OE-style numbers used in axle seal service.

Vehicle Fitment

• Fits 1994-2001 Jeep Cherokee, rear, w/ Spicer 35 Axle
• Fits 1994-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee, rear, Spicer 35 Axle
• Fits 1980-1983 Jeep Cherokee, rear
• Fits 1980-1983 Jeep Wagoneer, rear

Common Repair Uses

• Rear differential gear oil seepage at the pinion area
• Lubricant loss from the rear axle housing
• Contamination entering the differential through a worn pinion seal
• Service replacement during rear axle maintenance on Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee models
• Noise or driveline concerns related to low differential fluid level

Installation Notes and Tips

Inspect the pinion yoke, shaft surface, and surrounding housing before installation. Clean the sealing bore thoroughly and verify the axle configuration matches the listed Spicer 35 applications before ordering. Proper seal seating and correct pinion preload are important during rear axle service.

Quality Assurance

SKF manufactures seals to defined design and material standards for long service life and dependable sealing performance. The brand’s seal engineering background and application-specific construction support consistent rear axle service results.