Analysis of Leakage

Analysis of Leakage

Clean up the leaking area enough to identify the exact source.

A plugged axle housing vent can cause excessive pinion seal lip wear due to internal pressure buildup.

Make sure axle lubricant level is at the bottom of the fill hole.

Axle Vent
A plugged vent will cause excessive seal lip wear due to internal pressure buildup. If a leak occurs, check the vent. If the vent cannot be cleared, install a new vent.

Flange Yoke Seal
Leaks at the axle drive pinion seal originate for the following reasons:
^ Damaged seal
^ Worn seal journal surface

Any damage to the seal bore (dings, dents, gouges or other imperfections) will distort the seal casing and allow leakage past the outer edge of the axle drive pinion seal.

The axle drive pinion seal can be torn, cut or gouged if it is not installed carefully. The spring that holds the axle drive pinion seal against the pinion flange may be knocked out and allow leakage past the lip.

A new pinion flange must be installed if any of these conditions exist.

Metal chips trapped at the sealing lip can cause oil leaks. These can cause a wear groove on the pinion flange and pinion seal wear.

When a seal leak occurs, install a new seal and check the vent to make sure it is clean and free of foreign material.

Differential Seals

CAUTION: When installing shafts, do not allow splines to contact seal during installation.

Halfshaft pilot bearing housing seals are susceptible to the same kinds of damage as axle drive pinion seals if incorrectly installed. The seal bore must be clean and the lip handled carefully to avoid cutting or tearing it. The seal journal surface must be free of nicks, gouges and rough surface texture.