Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) NV5600 Seal Leak?

[chazj]

I just discovered oil underneath the truck behind the transmission/transfer case area. A local driveline specialist was able to positively identify whether the fluid was engine oil, transmission oil (manual) or transfer case fluid... although didn't think it was the latter's ATF. He wiped the area clean & suggested I "keep and eye on it" as this was a common problem with the NV5600.



Since there has never been a puddle of fluid, I was curious if I can take a "wait and see attitude"? or would it be better just to have him tear into the mess and start replacing seals? He didn't seem anxious to my spending my $$$ towards the latter.



The truck is serviced at Dodge on a regular basis (with fluids topped off... as needed). Not knowing how serious these leaks can become, in a short amount of time, I'm not sure I want to risk running the transmission/transfer case DRY.



Any suggestions for the safest/cost effective course of action most appreciated!

 

[JKinney]

if its the rear seal, Ive replaced mine once it is napa seal 19211. Not to hard of a job.

 

[kscheffler]

mine has been leaking for 4 years and no change in leakage rate I just keep monitoring it. .

 

[chazj]

As an update I had the seal replaced. It took about a pint to bring the capacity of transmission back to "full". Hopefully no damage was done by being that LOW!



At any rate... Just put the first miles on after replacement... 200. I noted that the new seal is also leaking a little bit... . :-(



Question: What are these seals made out of? and 2) and thus do they need to swell before they seal completely?



Have wiped the area clean again so I can keep an eye on it. Unfortunately can't be repaired for another 2 weeks until I get back to NV. Am hoping the leak will stop before then!!!

 

[kscheffler]

I looked at my transmission level yesterday, I have fast coolers with lexan windows with a sharpy mark on the correct operating level, and my leak seems to be decreasing at least it is not as wet anymore. So maybe these seals will seal with time. I only have 67k miles so go figure... I will continue to monitor. .