Analysis Of Leakage

Driveline System







Analysis of Leakage

Clean up the leaking area enough to identify the exact source. An axle leak can be caused by the following:

- Axle lubricant level is too high.
- Worn or damaged axle shaft seals or differential seals.
- Differential housing is cracked.
- Flange yoke seal is worn or damaged.
- Pinion flange is scored or damaged.
- Axle cover is not sealed.
- Vent is plugged.

Repair the axle as necessary. Make sure the axle lubricant is at the correct level. Refer to Specifications.

Axle Vent

NOTE: If a plugged vent cannot be cleared, install a new vent.

A plugged vent or vent hose will cause excessive seal lip wear due to internal pressure buildup. If a leak occurs, check the vent and the vent hose. Remove the hose from the vent nipple and clear the hose of any foreign material. While the hose is removed, pass a length of mechanic's wire or a small diameter Allen wrench in and out of the vent to clean it. Connect the hose when done.

Flange Yoke Seal

Leaks at the axle drive pinion seal originate for the following reasons:

- Seal was installed incorrectly.
- Poor quality 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 rubber lips can occasionally become hard and crack at the oil lip contact point. The contact point on the pinion flange may blacken. Marks, nicks, gouges or rough surface texture on the seal journal of the pinion flange will also cause leaks.

Install a new pinion flange if any of these conditions exist.

When a seal leak occurs, install a new seal and check the vent and the vent hose to verify that they are clean and free of foreign material.

Wheel Hub Oil Seals

Wheel hub oil seals are susceptible to the same kinds of damage as axle drive pinion seals if installed incorrectly. The seal bore must be clean and the lip handled carefully to avoid cutting or tearing it. Spindle journal surface must be free of nicks, gouges and rough surface texture. For information on wheel hub oil seals, refer to Differential Assembly and/or Axle Shaft Assembly or Differential Assembly and/or Axle Shaft Assembly.