Please assist me in deciphering the image below of the rear axle of the 1997 Land Rover Discovery I. I am no expert, but it doesn't look correct? There is a dark substance on the spherical object along with a possibly missing cap/bolt (pointed out by the arrow.) There also seems to be the remanence of a substance stained on the ground directly below (as seen in the top image.) How do we correct this issue? Thanks.



[IMG]local://upfiles/1448/CBF9B07E70424CDB8787771700765D85.jpg[/IMG]

 

That is the drain plug for your rar diff, looks like it has taken a little abuse, has a slight leak and should probably be replaced on your next service. How long has it been since you serviced the diffs?
Mike

 

Hi Mike (and all),

Thanks for responding to my question. Myself not being a mechanic, but having some common knowledge, what is the funtion of the differential? I know it of course has to do with the proper functionality of the wheels. As you stated and I can clearly see, it sure looks as if something is indeed leaking. Would you be willing to ellaborate more on the differential "looking as if it's taken some abuse...?" Hmm, I am not sure off the top of my head when/if the differentials were serviced. Being as if the vehicle has about 68,000 miles, is that something that would have been completed during one of the scheduled maintance visits? Now, that I have also visually examined the front differental, I don't think it looks any better. Suggestions?

Thanks again.

 

As per my PM, let's talk.
Mike