I got a bunch of quotes on a diff pinion seal for my AU, and just had to share my experience. Prices from independent parts places here in NZ ranged from $8.49 to $32.78 (that's about $6.50 to $25 in AUD). From three Ford dealers, I was quoted $59.80, $140.30 and $162.80 (that's $46, $108 and $125 AUD)!

If there is someone selling it for $8.49, they can't be paying more than $6.50 for it. Considering that Ford doesn't actually make this part, they are probably buying it from the same suppliers as everyone else - and getting a better volume discount. Let's see - cost: $6, selling price: $162, markup: 2600%! That's beyond rip-off and well into burglary territory.

I ended up buying a top-of-the-line Viton seal (lasts almost forever) from Allied Bearing in Cairns for A$10.50 plus $12 postage - less than NZ$30 all up - and far superior to the part Ford is selling. A happy ending.

My pinion seal is leaky and just picked one up from REPCO for $8.

I was just wondering is it a difficult job replacing it, I know I have to drop the tailshaft which shouldnt be a problem, but is getting the rest of the hardware off of the pinion a drama?

Cheers

It can be a mission. I couldn't be bothered, so I got my neighbour (a Ford mechanic) to do it at work with the hoist and all the right tools. Cost me $40 and no hassle whatsoever

Nah
, fairly simple job - mark the tailshaft and diff flange, and also mark the pinion nut to pinion shaft. That ensures you do the nut back up to the same position - there is a preload spacer on the pinion bearings.
Also get some 10mm clear plastic hose from bunnings, and a funnel to gravity fill up the oil - so much easier.