What happens if you have a leaking axle seal?

If not caught in time, the transmission may even get permanently damaged. A leaking axle seal of the rear differential or transfer unit might cause a gear oil (sulfur) smell coming from under the vehicle.

How much does it cost to replace an axle seal?

Even though a new axle seal is not a very expensive part, the repair cost may vary from $150 to $650, depending on the complexity. For example, in the Ford Escape mentioned above, a leaking axle seal is recommended to be replaced as a kit with an axle bushing and inner CV joint;

How does the seal on the CV axle work?

An axle seal holds the transmission fluid in at that point where the CV axle splines into the transaxle housing. In addition to keeping oil in, the seal keeps the grit and moisture out. The seal relies on a tiny amount of lubrication from the fluid it holds in to minimize wear.

When to know if your transmission seal is leaking?

If you start to notice oil drops on your driveway, it could be a sign of a leaking axle seal. Transmission slipping at highway speeds. While an oil spot on the driveway is a common sign, it does not always happen because the axle seal leaks more during highway driving. Instead, you may notice your transmission slipping at highway speeds.

How to replace a front axle shaft seal?

If you have ever owned a GM four wheel drive vehicle then there is a good chance you have had a front axle shaft seal leak. We replaced the RH output shaft seal on a Tahoe but it is the same for Silverado, Sierra,Suburban and Yukon. Part one shows details on the tear down and part two with guide you through the reassembly. Loading…

Is it difficult to replace an axle seal as a DIY project?

Is it difficult to replace an axle seal as a DIY project? In a typical front-wheel drive car, the hardest part is to remove the CV axle (driveshaft) to get to the seal. Without a hoist and proper tools it’s quite difficult, especially if the seal is leaking on the side of the longer driveshaft (the right side in most cars).

Since the transmission fluid drops, there is not enough fluid for brake band friction, valve operation, gear lubrication, and the torque converter. If the leaking axle seal does not get fixed soon and the transmission is slipping, you could cause permanent damage to the transmission.

How is the inner axle side seal installed?

Upgrade Design — Designed to safely and evenly apply pressure to the inner axle seal to press it into the axle housing without damaging the seal. Special Features — The different inner and outer diameters of the puck part of the tool press on many different seals. More efficient and durable to save your time and money.

What to do about inner axle seal on Dana 30?

Great Compatibility — Works on Dana 30, 44 and 60 front differentials. (Please refer to the model in the product description list below the page) Upgrade Design — Designed to safely and evenly apply pressure to the inner axle seal to press it into the axle housing without damaging the seal.

What happens if you have a leaking axle seal?