Troubleshooting Axle Leak
Thread Starter
JK Newbie
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
From: Destin, Fl
Troubleshooting Axle Leak
I recently replaced rotors & pads on the rear. Upon removal of the rotor I noticed this possible leak. I am not all that mechanically inclined but like to wrench around a little. Could someone help me troubleshoot the potential issue?
1) Have not yet checked the diff oil level(the leak is not producing enough to even sling or drip outside the hub area)
2) No performance issues(vibrations, grinding, etc) or sounds...yet
So, I would assume some sort of seal & possibly a bearing? Is this something I could do with limited knowledge/tools?
Rear Passenger Side
Any help is GREATLY appreciated!
1) Have not yet checked the diff oil level(the leak is not producing enough to even sling or drip outside the hub area)
2) No performance issues(vibrations, grinding, etc) or sounds...yet
So, I would assume some sort of seal & possibly a bearing? Is this something I could do with limited knowledge/tools?
Rear Passenger Side
Any help is GREATLY appreciated!
JK Super Freak
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 1,326
Likes: 0
From: Keystone Heights
Not a big deal looks like the begining of the rear seals going. Like the previous poster said clean them and see how long it takes to leak again as this could be years of seaping. If they do leak again this requires removing the rear axles. This is done by supporting the vehicle on the axle tubes with jackstands. Then remove the wheel speed sensor behind your backing plate. (this is not absolutly nesessary but I have seen people damage them and Identified by the wire going to it and a 7mm bolt above it) Next remove the four axle retaining nuts and then slide the axle out. Next unless you have a press take the axle to the dealer and have them install the seals on the shafts. It is usally a half hour per axle charge. Pulling the axles yourself will save about an hour or so labor charges too. Note which axle goes to which side as they may be different lengths depending on your model. Hope this helps.
Thread Starter
JK Newbie
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
From: Destin, Fl
Not a big deal looks like the begining of the rear seals going. Like the previous poster said clean them and see how long it takes to leak again as this could be years of seaping. If they do leak again this requires removing the rear axles. This is done by supporting the vehicle on the axle tubes with jackstands. Then remove the wheel speed sensor behind your backing plate. (this is not absolutly nesessary but I have seen people damage them and Identified by the wire going to it and a 7mm bolt above it) Next remove the four axle retaining nuts and then slide the axle out. Next unless you have a press take the axle to the dealer and have them install the seals on the shafts. It is usally a half hour per axle charge. Pulling the axles yourself will save about an hour or so labor charges too. Note which axle goes to which side as they may be different lengths depending on your model. Hope this helps.
Now how do you drive it to the dealer with only 3 axles....JUST KIDDING
JK Super Freak
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 1,326
Likes: 0
From: Keystone Heights
This is where a family or friends vehicle comes in handy. Good luck worse case your are looking at a couple hundred plus parts if you have someone do the whole thing. Depending on the miles you have its a good time to change the axle bearings also as there would be no additional labor involve only parts (around $100.00 per side) If they are not worn and your mileage is low under 75k don't worry about them.