Drivetrain - Rear Differential Vent Fluid Leak
NUMBER 03-63-09DATE: 02/04/09
APPLICABILITY:
2007MY Legacy 4AT without VDC
2008MY (early production) Legacy 4AT without VDC
SUBJECT:
Rear Differential Vent Oil Leak
(XH and XJ stamped differentials)
Introduction
If you encounter a vehicle which has oil seepage from the rear differential vent, the clearance between the rear cover and gasket may be insufficient permitting oil to collect in the air space of the rear cover. If oil is collected it could be vented out with air. Adjustment of the rear cover and gasket will correct the condition.
Countermeasure in Production
For improvement of the venting function, the design of the rear cover was slightly changed. The countermeasure rear cover was used in production starting in June, 2007 with the VINs shown above.
REPAIR PROCEDURE/INFORMATION
If there is insufficient clearance, the gasket will need to be moved upward and the rear cover moved downward.
1. Remove drain plug and drain the differential fluid.
2. Remove rear cover and gasket. Clean rear cover and differential of any gasket material.
Note:
The rear cover gasket, drain and filler plug gaskets are not reusable.
3. Use a new gasket and install rear cover. Keep the bolts loose enough so that the gasket and cover can be positioned properly. Move the gasket upward and move the rear cover downward against rear differential case within the clearance between the rear cover mounting bolts and holes. Torque the bolts to proper specification, 25 Nm (2.5 kgf-m, 18.5 ft-lb).
4. Use a new gasket and install drain plug. Remove filler plug and add oil (Oil Grade: API classification GL-5). The oil level should be kept even with the bottom of the filler hole. Use a new gasket and install filler plug.
Warranty/Claim Information
For vehicles within warranty, refer to Subaru Warranty Wizard(TM) for claim information.vehicles within warranty, refer to Subaru Warranty Wizard for claim information.