Water/gear oil leaking from pinion seal

[la_blazer82]

I knew I had a slight leak at the pinion seal of my front D44 that I swapped for the 10b in February. I bought the axle from another member. The axle sat outside before the install, and was subjected to the heavy rains in Jan/Feb earlier this year. I haven't engage 4WD yet. I'm obviously going to open up the diff cover and drain the gear oil. Is there anything I should be looking for? Could there be water in there from the rain or was is it more likely that it was subjected to some abuse before I bought it?

 

[FWP]

Get the water out ASAP. The inside of the diff will be rusting away, causing damage. My guess is the axle seals are shot, maybe the pinion too. Also check the vent.

 

[la_blazer82]

Thanks. I'm going to drain the fluid and check the all the seals