Half Shaft play...any ideas? (1mz-fe/541e)

[toyotabob]

Replacing my differential seal (driver-side). After removing all appropriate nuts and bolts, I noticed some play (side-to-side motion at the inner C.V. Joint) prior to removing the half-shaft. Is this normal? I recently purchased the vehical, and the guy who sold it to me just replaced both half-shafts and attached C.V.Joints. He said that is when the inner seals started to leak. I removed the inner seal after removing the shaft, and noticed there was no tightening spring on the inside lip of the seal itself. Is this correct?

Is it normal for a bit of play at this point, or should it be perfeclty tight? Are there any problems with failed bearings in this area. I think if I replace the seal (and verify the right half shafts have been put in the vehical) the car has another 100k in it at least.

All car parts have weak points, and I would like any thoughts on my situation.

[toyotabob]

Looked deeper into the manual...says there should be 2-3mm of axial play...which is great. What is not so great is the fact that I am too stupid to figure out "AXIAL" direction. I think it is looking directly at the hub (and down the center of the shaft if it were hollow) and its movement on the x-y axis (left right up down or combination of two.).

Why would this not be a tighter fit...and will excessive play cause premature seal wear?

Safe driving.

[Doctor J]

I've seen axle shafts with a lot of play, but seals were not leaking.