[blu]

Hi guys,
I've just noticed a really small leak coming from the rear axel. Is this a problem to fix? I just want to get as much info before I take it to the mechanic.
The Jeep (4lt, I-6) drives fine, no noises or squeaks, and she is manual. Any input would be greatly appreciated...

 

[MR.CLIFFORD]

Where is the leak on the axle?

 

[khenderson]

don't ya hate it when your rear end leaks!

but seriously....is it from the front side of the axle or the back? either way, its a seal problem. so you're lookin at a pinion seal or the diff seal. both pretty easy to do yourself. some good write-ups out there for them as well.

 

[blu]

Guys,
Looking from the back bumper to the front it is at 9 o'clock on the round axel. The leak dribbles down (really slowly) to the bottom of the round axel and then lets out one drop every 2 days.
Where are the read ups on this topic? I would really like to do it myself to 1) save money from the stealership, and 2) prefer to learn about my truck myself.
So it is easy to do? Thanks for your help.
By the way, is it serious, like in danger of destroying anything?

 

[bluetj99]

if your replacing the seal on the diff. then no its really simple. im 18 and did it in no time at all. just remember to not scrape the axle housing with anything metal or the seal wont seal completely. lucky for you your gears arent frozen together.

 

[khenderson]

sounds like it's the seal for the diff, but to make sure, i'd crawl up under it and make sure it's not leaking from the front of the diff and running down to the bottom and dripping off.

here's a write up for changing diff fluid, but it covers resealing the cover. click me!

 

[blu]

Hi guys,
I've gone under the Jeep and discovered it is a pinion seal leak. This is where the driveshaft joins the U-joint, but I can't locate the exact spot where the leak is occurring. Once again, the leak is minimal.
Is this kind of leak common, and is it dangerous? Can it cause alot of damage? And is it a big job to change the seal?
I just want to be prepared for when I go to the dealership to get fixed so they don't try to rip me off.
Thanks heaps guys...

 

[khenderson]

it's not a BIG deal as long as you keep enough oil in the diff at all times. my roommates toy leaks, but he just keeps it full until he gets around to fixing it. here's a link to a pinion seal replacement if you wanna try to tackle it yourself.

click me

that'll also give you an idea of what's going on if the stealership tries to hose you.

 

[blu]

HOLY SHIT!!!
My local Jeep dealership just quoted me $250 to change the pinion seal, the lubricant and the labour!
Have you guys in the States heard of such prices??