Go for it. And @abran can hook you up with a gorgeous rocker panel to replace your cigarette lighters.

 

Thanks Travis!

 

They quoted me 1800 for the whole job which is more than I am willing to shell out, considering in the past year I have put in 5.5k in repairs. I told them that this weekend I am going to scrub and de-grease the diff to determine which side and where it is leaking. The estimate is 12.00 hrs totaling 1,320.00 with the kit costing 390.00.
I wonder if it would be cheaper to just get a used rear diff (even with a locker??) instead of a rebuild.

Any thoughts?
Thanks,
James

 

I paid $350 for seals and bearings for the front and rear diffs. ECGS charged $800 to install ARB lockers and the new seals and bearings for front and rear. I imagine they’d charge less than that if they’re just rebuilding diffs.

The only catch is you have to pull your own diffs.

 

All-
I was able to degrease the diff yesterday in glorious weather here in Virginia. After driving it to work and back today, from what I can tell, it appears to be seeping from the driveshaft seal. It then gradually trickles down to the seam of the diff housing. It explains some of the splattering and concentration on the left side, as the diff housing seem blocks it from the other side.
Any thoughts?
Thanks,
James

 

Sorry, I see this is old. Yeah, you need to rebuild it.

Its possible to change just that seal while the diff is on the vehicle, but you need to mark the pinion depth/position and get it right back on the same position. If not you will have issues with the ring and pinion riding on each other in the wrong place.

 

I appreciate the response- I will reach out to my independent mechanic and ask about pinion seal replacement.

If I have to replace, I would swap out a used diff. I would think it would be cheaper just to remove and replace than remove and rebuild.
thanks,
James

 

Rebuild kit is approx $250 plus sand blast time(should blast the inside at least).

R&R is 4.9 hours, Rebuild is 3 hours. So, 7.9 hours of labor plus the approx $300 for rebuild parts and sandblast.

So yes, swapping in a used diff is cheaper. But, for how long?

 

Excellent point- though it has 156k hoping to get maybe 200k out of her. The quote from my local place was 1800 for rebuild. Which is SO MUCH MONEY. Haha- Got some long drives ahead, so fortunately have some extra fluid in my kit I can add more when on the road.

 

I myself would not have an issue swapping in a used diff to keep it on the road (with hopes the used is decent). Then have your original rebuilt or DIY rebuild. Then swap back or if the used is good, you have a rebuilt on standby.

Also I think rebuilds can be had for about $1,200? I forget. You do the swap of course.