i have 97 4runner ltd; i have had recurring right axle seal leaks.
the dealer has re-done the job several times at their cost and says this next one is the last(previously the seal was distorted); they asked if i tow and if it has been in accident; the answer is no to all ques
is this a common problem as i know another person with the same problem

 

Welcome to Yotatech. You will find if you search for almost any problem you are having, you will find an answer. This is especially true if you have a leaking rear axle seal.

What you need to do is replace the vent on diff. I don't know why, but the dealers don't seem to get this. Even better, extend, as in this write up here https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f129...her-mod-75747/

I extended my breather and have not had the problem in 60 000 miles.

Once again, search and you will find tons of information on this. Enjoy your Yota, they grow up so fast.

 

dealer (regency toyota in vancouver, bc) said they replaced the vent in the diff last repair which was done in aug 2007, about 10 000 km (6000 miles ago); dealer said maybe isomething nside diff even with no symptoms of diff issues is causing axle leak; and wanted to remove the diff and rebuild it
I talked to Jay (great guy) and he said unlikely it is in the diff; and he can't see how it would cause the axle to leak; he also said it is usually the tech's install that causes these seals to leak so soon
will keep everyone informed
thanks everyone for the help

 

Yes, this is a common problem, but, the frequency you are experiencing is a little higher.

Have you checked the outer bearings? Or the straightness of the axle shaft?

Furthermore, if you have a 14mm and 10mm wrench, you could do this yourself. There's 4 bolts behind the drum and 1 brake line fitting to unhook along with the clevis pin for the parking break. The axle shaft will slide right out revealing the axle seal in the housing. Pull this one out and drive a new one in with a seal driver or make your own

 

I am assuming that they replaced the wheel bearings when they did the seal. But if not then that'd be my guess. A bad bearing can cause the seal to leak even a new seal.
Also could be that the seal is being damaged when reinserting the axle assembly. It is essential that the axle is inserted carefully as not to allow the weight of it to rest on the seal before it is all the way in.

 

u can save buko bucks doing it yourself as listed above. mine had a leak into the drums a while back, replaced it myself and extended my breather and till this day no probs. sorry about your luck. dIY and save some chips!