Differential leaking at the axels?(Pictures Incl.)

1439 Views 6 Replies 4 Participants Last post by brewcity43, Oct 19, 2013

GRSUBIEDRVR

Discussion Starter · Oct 16, 2013

While under my car today I happen to look at my rear differential and noticed where the rear axels meet the diff there seems to be a leak. Both right and left axle collars are covered with black grease(pictures below). I inspected the boots on the axles and all were in good condition not containing and tears or holes. I believe it to be gear oil that has gotten dirty....What do you guys think worn out/damaged diff seals? Any help/ideas are appreciated- Car: 2008 STI

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got2boostit2

· #2 · Oct 16, 2013

Yep worn differential seals.

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GRSUBIEDRVR

Discussion Starter · #3 · Oct 16, 2013

Anyone have experience changing these seals? Can the axles be removed and a new seal set in or is it necessary to remove the entire differential. Or am I going to have to pay a visit to the stealership?

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Sabrewings

· #4 · Oct 16, 2013

You'd unbolt the lower knuckle bolts, then pop the axle out of the diff and swing the knuckle out far enough for the axle to come out fully. Support them with coat hangers or something. After that, changing them is pretty easy with a seal puller and a dead blow to tap them in.

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brewcity43

· #5 · Oct 16, 2013

make sure there isn't any excessive movement in the axle where it goes in the diff, otherwise you will replace seals and not fix the issue

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GRSUBIEDRVR

Discussion Starter · #6 · Oct 18, 2013

brewcity43 said:
make sure there isn't any excessive movement in the axle where it goes in the diff, otherwise you will replace seals and not fix the issue

Thanks for the heads up. What type of movement should I be looking for? Should I perform the check before dis-assembling the suspension components to remove the axle?

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brewcity43

· #7 · Oct 19, 2013

Yes. Make sure there isn't excessive up and down movement. There might be some but excessive I mean 1/8 in

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