What happens if a pinion seal fails on a differential?
As long as the pinion seal is in place and performing well, the differential will stay in good shape and operate as it is supposed to. A failed pinion seal can result in a minor leak where fluid seeps out, or a major leak that can ruin the differential bearings and gears.
What to do if your pinion seal is leaking?
The pinion seal leaking is a good indicator that something needs attention. If replacing your pinion seal is something you would rather leave to a professional, have one of YourMechanic’s certified technicians perform the replacement. The most popular service booked by readers of this article is Pinion Seal Replacement.
Where is the pinion seal on a Nissan Frontier?
I sniffed it and it had the unmistakable stench of gear oil. I then noticed that oil was slowly dripping from the companion flange/pinion nut area between the flange and the drive shaft. So I’ve ordered a pinion seal and am preparing the do the repair.
What is maximum preload for diff pinion seal?
Do not exceed the maximum preload (my manual said between 10 and 20 inch lbs). It took only 1/8″ turn (that’s inches, NOT 1/8 of a turn) to get my increase. Also, DO NOT follow the factory pinion nut torque specs ( I believe it is 73 to 214 ft lbs. Those are for when using a new crush sleeve and you may not reach that with a reused crush sleeve.
What to do if you have a pinion seal leak?
To check for a leak, follow the drive shaft to the rear axle, then look around the yoke for fresh oil. If you notice fresh oil, you have a pinion seal leak. As soon as you notice this, contact the professionals at YourMechanic to have the pinion seal replaced.
Where is the pinion seal on a four wheel drive vehicle?
The pinion seal is located near the pinion shaft and is designed so that fluid does not leak out of the differential. Some vehicles have a rear pinion seal, where others have both a front and rear pinion seal, it just depends on the make and model of your vehicle and if the vehicle has rear or four wheel drive.
Why is my differential leaking from the pinion seal?
If you notice your differential has low fluid, chances are it is leaking from the pinion seal. This needs to be fixed in a timely manner because as the fluid levels drop, the gears will wear down as the friction increases.
What happens when a pinion seal goes bad?
A failing pinion seal will leak which can ruin the differential. Average rating from 31 customers who received a Pinion Seal Replacement. The pinion seal, also called a pinion shaft, is designed to keep oil in and any water, dirt or debris out.