I was going to do oil change myself. Chevy dealer inspected and recommend fixing transmission cooler line and front axel seal that’s leaking.

it’ll be my first time, is that something I can attempt to do myself? They want $2k for this work.

 

Front axle seal is straight forward, but involved. If you are mechanically inclined, and want to learn, I'd say go for it. You will need a few special/home made tools to remove the old seal in install the new seal. It's not that the removal and install is special, it's just slightly tough to get at the area with some leverage (they can be stuck in there quite well). When you install, you need to make sure you don't damage the new one, so a large socket or something similar, along with an extended rod to hammer it in is needed. You will be removing the front axle, which means you'll need to remove the spindle (although you can get by with only removing the top joint). Keep everything clean once the axle is out, and would recommend changing the front diff fluid after the seal work.

I have not done my trans lines (yet), but these can be a pain, especially if they are corroded. I can't tell if the shop is only replacing the rubber section, or the entire run including the hard lines. If only the rubber, you might end up twisting off the end of the hard line, and then you'll be replacing those anyway. These hard line connections are typically hard to get at, and starting the threads on these hard lines can be frustrating to say the least. Trying to fish the hard lines through the frame rails, around the trans, etc. can be tricky. Technically easier than the front seal, but can be a royal pain. My experience is not on the H3 though, so it may be easier, or harder, than what I have done previously.

I know there are threads about both of these, and the front seal topic has threads with pictures; I started one of those threads. Make sure if you install the seal yourself that you don't put it in backwards. I can assure you it will leak....

 

THE #1 cause for leaking axle seals is OVERFILL! Before you do anything, confirm that the front diff is at the proper level. Check the Trans Fluid if at the proper level as well.

The dealership is the LAST PLACE ON EARTH to go to for repairs to an out of warranty vehicle.

 

This is very helpful, I’m handy - and will try this