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Thread: Options: Leaking axle seal

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    Default Options: Leaking axle seal



    A leak on the outboard axle seal on the jeep's rear axle (D44) is a small thorn to tend. I've changed seals a couple times - the leak persists.

    This last seal's install I siliconed the seal's outer surface (and cleaned surfaces as appropriate). I'm fairly certain that the leakage is not from the seal to axle tube interface but rather from the sealing surface with the axle.

    Are "heavy duty" seals available? I don't recall the axle's sealing surface to be worn/rough - but it might well be. In that case, what repair options exist - does the axle get replaced or can the sealing surface be repaired?

    I don't have reason to believe the outboard wheel bearing is at fault.

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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    How has it been between changing seals?

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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    My rear is seeping a bit. Did some research on leaking seals. Sounds like it can be caused by wear in the axle. Just a thought.
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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    Could it be a bent or out of round axle tube?

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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    There should be a seal with a repair sleeve to slip onto the axle sealing area so the new seal is against a smooth, round surface.

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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    I like to use Gasket Maker 515 rather than RTV silicone. Clean up the surfaces good first (may need a little wool or emery cloth). If there is notable wear, then it may need some machine work.

    I think Timken or General bearing both make pretty good seals.
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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    I think Sean had a similar problem with the 9-inch in his Ranger, it turned out to be a bent axle shaft.
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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    Hows your vent?

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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    Bent housing or bent shaft can cause the seals to fail. On my front axle the seal fits loose in the housing so some RTV was added when the seal was installed, it hasn't leaked in 8 years, knock on wood.

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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    Thanks folks - some items I had not considered! I'll inspect/test the vent and will check for a bent axle and/or tube before doing anything else.

    It might be January before it happens. I'll update when I take the next step.

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    Default Re: Options: Leaking axle seal



    Clean surfaces are the biggest part of good seel install.
    If the area on the shaft where the seal will ride is rough at all the seal will fail.
    I don't believe a speedy sleeve an seal set is available for this application.

    Mine leaks after I top everything off. I bet the breather on my axle is plugged up.

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