2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission What did I do to my rear end?

[FFSchooley]

I am not to familiar with rear ends, so I am hoping by describing what happened, someone can give me an idea of whats wrong so I don't go to the shop clueless.



I was 4 wheeling in the mud in 4 low and went into a puddle and blew the bead on the front drivers tire. After many tries, I finally got towed out. Replaced the front tire with my spare which was a 32 inch tire, compared to the 35's I am running. I figured it would be ok to limp home on. Halfway home, the rear end started to vibrate really bad. I pulled over and noticed that quite a bit of differential fluid had been comming out of the pinion seal and the fluid that blew on the rear end was smoking it was soo hot. Then I looked at the front end and saw differential fluid had been blowing out of the axle seals on both sides. So I got it towed home and took off the rear differential cover. There was still fluid inside, and it looked normal with no metal shavings or sediment in it. As far as I can tell, the rear end looked normal.



Any idea of what could have gone wrong? I know its hard without looking at it, but I just want some ideas before I go to the shop. Thanks in advance!



Brett

 

[illflem]

I could see this happening if you stayed in 4wd on the limp home or had two different size tires on a LSD. From what you describe all I can say is I don't know but will move your question for more exposure.

 

[Sageair]

I don't think you did anything to your rear end,I believe all the lubricant you saw on the rear diff blew back onto it but was from the front diff.

 

[krs]

Plugged vents with mud?