Rear Differential Leak
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Senior User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 389
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From: NorCal
Rear Differential Leak
2001 4x4 PSD XLT
62K miles.
I just noticed a leak in the rear differential (pumpkin in middle of rear axel?). The fluid has collected dust or migrated through the dust up the cover about 1-3". Noticed since last oil change. Towed 8000lb Travel trailer over coast range this weekend a couple of hundred miles with no noticeable change since last tow.
Looks as though the cover was off before, but when I purchased at 56K miles there was no leaky. It appears that extra goop/sealant was used the last time the cover was off. Can the sealing surfaces get warped? Can I remove myself and reapply goop. Where do you fill the differential and with what fluid? Can I check fluid level and see if it is w/in spec?
I need to tow again (I-80 over Sierra Nevadas) next weekend, should I be concerned? Do not know if I will have time/$ to get it in the shop.
62K miles.
I just noticed a leak in the rear differential (pumpkin in middle of rear axel?). The fluid has collected dust or migrated through the dust up the cover about 1-3". Noticed since last oil change. Towed 8000lb Travel trailer over coast range this weekend a couple of hundred miles with no noticeable change since last tow.
Looks as though the cover was off before, but when I purchased at 56K miles there was no leaky. It appears that extra goop/sealant was used the last time the cover was off. Can the sealing surfaces get warped? Can I remove myself and reapply goop. Where do you fill the differential and with what fluid? Can I check fluid level and see if it is w/in spec?
I need to tow again (I-80 over Sierra Nevadas) next weekend, should I be concerned? Do not know if I will have time/$ to get it in the shop.
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 150
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From: Nevada,
hey Damone,
typically the surfaces do not warp, usually someone uses the incorrect sealant and/or fluid and that is what causes the leak. remove the cover to drain the fluid, clean all surfaces, (a razor blade works very well), apply the proper sealant. The fill plug is on the left front side of the carrier near the housing, (behind where inner pinion bearing is), you didn't mention if you have limited slip or not, be sure to add friction modifire, and the proper fluid if you do. i know its a little more money, but the stealer is the only way to go for your parts, including the sealant. A little expense now can save a great big repair bill later!!!!!!!
good luck, R
typically the surfaces do not warp, usually someone uses the incorrect sealant and/or fluid and that is what causes the leak. remove the cover to drain the fluid, clean all surfaces, (a razor blade works very well), apply the proper sealant. The fill plug is on the left front side of the carrier near the housing, (behind where inner pinion bearing is), you didn't mention if you have limited slip or not, be sure to add friction modifire, and the proper fluid if you do. i know its a little more money, but the stealer is the only way to go for your parts, including the sealant. A little expense now can save a great big repair bill later!!!!!!!
good luck, R
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Senior User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 389
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From: NorCal
How much fluid/friciton modifier will the differential take (well I guess I will check my manual). How do I tell when the thing is full?
I was told it is possible I just have a loose bolt. I will check tonight.
Thanks for the advice a12play12.
I was told it is possible I just have a loose bolt. I will check tonight.
Thanks for the advice a12play12.
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 150
Likes: 0
From: Nevada,
Hey Damone,
It is unusual for just a loose bolt to be the culprit, however it has happened. I am assuming that you have a 10.5 axle, you will need 3 qts + modifier if you have limited slip, fill the diff slowly, (add modifier first), till fluid runs out the fill hole, if you fill it too fast (which is not very fast) fluid will push back out at you, so be patient!! After you think it is full, drive around a little and then recheck the level, if it dribbles out of the fill hole or you can stick your finger in the hole and it is within 1/8 in from the top you should be good to go.
Good Luck, R.
It is unusual for just a loose bolt to be the culprit, however it has happened. I am assuming that you have a 10.5 axle, you will need 3 qts + modifier if you have limited slip, fill the diff slowly, (add modifier first), till fluid runs out the fill hole, if you fill it too fast (which is not very fast) fluid will push back out at you, so be patient!! After you think it is full, drive around a little and then recheck the level, if it dribbles out of the fill hole or you can stick your finger in the hole and it is within 1/8 in from the top you should be good to go.
Good Luck, R.
FTE *******
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 791
Likes: 1
From: Pittsburgh, PA
Use permatex OEM-Black sealant for the diff. Its good stuff, I have never had a leak if the surfaces are cleaned before using. Use your finger to spread a thin skin the cast housing, and apply a small bead on the surface of the cover. Let it skin over for about 5-10 min and put er together. Tighten it evenly, fill it up and call it done. I promise, it will be good.
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