2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission 98 2500 right rear axle seal leak

[Jgolden]

When I bought this truck the owner had just had the right rear axle seal replaced(Dana 60 limited slip). Drove it 100 miles and it leaked. Shop that had replaced the seal, replaced it again and said they had put in the wrong seal first time(this time they went to Dodge with vin). No charge. I got what I paid for, because it leaked before I got home. Doubt they were very careful.

This time I will do it myself, but would welcome any ideas on what would cause leak in the first place, and what I should look for when I have it apart. 60,000 mi.

All replies appreciated. ( This one is gas powered, my diesel is 1st gen) Thanks

 

[lumberjack98]

often i have seen the vent for the axle plugged and when the heat boilds up in the rearend due to driving the fluid will come out the easiest place possible. if the vent is clear then i would check the area where the seal rides on the spindle for wear i have used (repair seals) succesfully in the past they move the location where the seal rides to a diff spot. i was able to get them at napa. hope this helps Ken

 

[Jgolden]

Thanks. I did check the vent, seems ok. "repair seals", good to know.

 

[GBlaksley]

I've been having the same problems on my 96 4WD. Last week, it leaked enough to soak the rear drum brakes. I took it to a different shop and they said the differential was overfilled by a 1 1/2 quarts. It's happened to both sides a couple of times. For the record, I put on after market differetial (Mag-Hytec) cover that held extra oil. I had it right up to the full mark, and since have backed it down to the add mark. We'll see how long this one lasts.

 

[Jgolden]

Haven't gotten too far into it but looks like a reminder that somtimes you might as well do it yourself. The guy that put in the last seal used a chisel to tighten the adjuster nut on the hub and left all the shavings right there. A real craftsman.

Torque chisel.