Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

[Phylodog]

I replaced all of the fluids in my 05 Rubicon a little over a year and a half ago. Prior to doing this I noticed that the rear axle pinion seal was leaking a bit, there was a thin coating of lube on the shaft around the seal. When I popped the cover off I found a few small pieces of what looked like a small spring floating around in the differential. I posted a few pics online and was told that it looked like part of the pinion seal.

I had only owned the Jeep a couple of months and figured the rear air locker was probably shot after chewing part of that seal up. We took it to Michigan the following week and it ran great (lucky me).

The leak has since gotten worse and I've been keeping an eye on the fluid and adding as necessary. I suspect that it is no longer just the pinion seal but my crappy job with the sealant on the diff cover. I just ordered a set of gaskets ( these ) and I will put them on when I get back from Canada to hopefully resolve that issue.

My brother replaced the rear pinion seal on his Wrangler and said it was easy. He read a "how to" online and if I remember correctly he witness marked all of the bolts, pulled everything out, replaced the seal then tightened the bolts back to their exact locations. I'd like to attempt this but I don't know if the air lockers make it a more difficult or sensitive endeavor and I don't want to trash my rear diff.

Can it be handled by a layman (no mechanic) or should I pony up the cash to have it done at the stealership? The Jeep is still covered by the 7yr/70K powertrain warranty but I don't think they will cover this seal. The same stealership told me a few years ago that that particular warranty only covers internals of the engine, tranny and axles, seals and gaskets weren't covered.

What sayeth the educated?

 

[SledDog]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

If you are patient and already have some air tools, and can follow instructions, then the average shade tree mechanic can swing it. It all make sense when you look at it but it's a little bit hard science and a little bit of feel too. A weekend project for the first go.

 

[Turk]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

I've got an 06, and they should cover it under warranty. Don't let them tell you otherwise! What would happen if all the fluid leaked out and it locked up; they would have to cover it then!!

I just use RTV on the diff covers; no gaskets. You shouldn't have to mess w/ internals for the pinion seal, just pull the shaft and the yoke.

 

[macthknife]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

A pinion seal going out can be the result of bearing wear in the pinion. You should probably mount a dial indicator on the pinion, and check for thrust play, and side to side play. Should be almost none. Specs can probably be found online.

 

[HillbillyfromAL]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

I wouldn't use witness marking a bolt for anything. Like the guy above said it needs to be checked for excessive backlash, and play. You could also mess up the pinion depth and eat your ring gear up. All that needs to measured. Slot of people I know and myself included take this as an opportunity to change out all the bearings in there. If the seal has been leaking they could already be well on there way out. Do alot research online, and get a chelton, Haynes manual. If you can follow directions and mechanically inclined you'll be fine. Just take your time with it and don't let yourself get frustrated with it, that's when you start breaking shit

 

[Phylodog]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

Thanks guys

 

[Switchblade]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

Phylo, if it has the Powertrain 7/70, it covers ALL powertrain issues. Don't let them screw you. Our Dak QC 4x4 had big issues with the rear end a while back. The seal is an integral part of the rear end and as such is covered. COntact the warranty company if you have a copy of the warranty. It should also outline everything that is covered and that which is not. If that particular dealership is lieing to you, file a complaint with Dodge/Chrysler HQ...we had extremely fast, and very accurate service after we did that, adn we also switched dealerships as well to one that was recommended by corporate

 

[Phylodog]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

Thanks Switch, I'll take it in when I get back.

I'm used to getting screwed. I took my '02 Ram in for service and they told me the front axle seal was leaking. I told them it should be covered under warranty and that's when they told me the warranty only covered internals and not seals or gaskets. I told them to leave it alone and when it leaked all of the fluid out and blew up like a grenade they could fix the whole thing. I was told they would call me back.

The next phone call I got was them informing me that I had no warranty. This, after I verified the existence and ability to transfer the warranty before I bought the truck and calling to transfer it to my name after I bought the truck. Right good fuckin I took on that deal, proper fucked.

This time I had to pay a fee to transfer the warranty. Got em by the balls I believe.

 

[0481]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

Lear to do fhe sork yourself and buy used. It will save you from going crazy dealing with the stealership bull$#it.
I also have a ram 06 3500 drw with a cummins. Just turned 150k on the clock and running strong.

 

[Nidstyles]

Re: Question for the mechanics/4x4 guys

If you are plan on upgrading, now would be the time. Air-Locker's are notorious for leaking, and the Jeep's are no different than the after market variety which they are based on.

Why anyone would put an air-locker in the rear is beyond me. The first time you put that rear up at any angle that might cause pinion binding, you are risking the seals on it. Not only the seal's, but the third member as a whole with the seal cracking apart and the rear eating itself.