What is a differential seal?
The differential output seals are the seals located at the output shafts of a vehicle’s differential. They usually seal the axle shafts against the differential and prevent fluid from leaking out of the differential as it operates.
What is a rear differential pinion seal?
Located near the pinion shaft in the differential of vehicles, the pinion seal is an integral component of the car that prevents fluid leakage out of the differential. It also prevents water, debris, or dirt from getting into the differential.
Can you drive with a rear pinion seal leak?
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. Without a proper working differential, your vehicle will not be able to be driven.
How do you know if your rear pinion seal is leaking?
One of the biggest signs your pinion seal is failing is it is leaking. 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.
Where are the seals on a rear differential?
Some differentials put these seals just outside the bearings, while others have the seals all the way at the end of the axle tube. Due to different designs, your differential can leak from many different places making it difficult to determine the exact leak location. However, many people find that rear differential leaks are the most common.
Why do you need a differential output seal?
They usually seal the axle shafts against the differential and prevent fluid from leaking out of the differential as it operates. Some differential output seals also help to keep the axle shafts aligned properly with the differential.
What does it mean when your rear differential is leaking?
Rear differential leaks are the culprit, either at the axle seals, the pinion seal (where the driveshaft attaches), or the rear differential cover. Light brown or grayish fluid on the ground under the back of your truck is an indication that you have a differential fluid leak.
What are the symptoms of a bad differential seal?
The most common symptom for a problem with the differential output seal is an oil leak. If the seals dry or wear out, they will leak fluid from the axle shafts. Smaller leaks may produce faint traces of gear oil coming from the differential housing while larger leaks will produce drips and puddles underneath the vehicle.