I was doing my pre-winter oil change and I have been noticing that the front diff seal has been leaking more than average. I figured I check the oil level.

I pulled the inspection plug and to my surprise a grey oily goop started pouring out. My driveway sits at a slight incline so I was surprised to see anything at all other than a half empty diff that needs topping off.

The only thing that I can think of is that water is getting in there somehow? I know the diff seal leaks a little (near the drive shaft), but I have not been driving around in standing water any time lately (or ever!)

Anyway, I didn't have enough oil for a full drain and re-fill, but I will be running out for a new jug of oil and doing both diffs and the t case.

 

The diff (and other things) has a vent hose attached, that could be plugged, not allowing condesation a place to evaporate to. May want to consider 85W140 oil, and even some rubber seal treatment, like White Shepherd.

 

check the breathers. maybe it's blocked. then change the fluid and check it again in a week or so.

 

Thanks for the heads-up on that. I will check it out.

Savanah... This stuff?

 

i wouldnt use white shep until you check the breathers, drain, refill and check again.

 

What he said.
Your axle breather is clogged, just unbolt it and you will see the problem.
The milky stuff you saw is gear oil mixed with water from condensation, with a clogged breather the water cant escape.
Fix the breather problem and your leak will stop, the pressure that builds up from driving has to go somewhere, with no breather it will go out the weakest point.

 

Did you check it after driving??? gray? How old is it? Is this in the rear diff you changed the flange on?? Did you put the old bearing back in??

 

Read.

 

READ before typing dummy.

 

i did read it. you said you would check the breathers then proceeded to ask what white shep product to use.... so i reiterated I would not use it until you ran the truck again without the white shep....

great attitude you have. I'm sure you will be able to solve any issues you have with your truck without anyone's help so I'll be sure not to post on your threads any longer. good luck with the truck.