So I just got home from the tire store... taking pics of my new tires and I find this...





What is going on here???? Did my seal give out?

 

Looks like axle seal went....

 

I can't even tell where its leaking from...

 

Rear axle seal/bearing most likely. If it was the diff it would be more on the diff.

:wabbit2:

 

Indeed. Make sure you pull the diff breather and make sure its clear. Also, don't overfill the diff with oil.....

 

x2.

Edit - wow you guys are fast.

 

My thoughts exactly.. I'm multi-tasking... got auto parts stores up on the laptop and this thread up on the cell.. finally read Wabbit's reply and I got a few more after that. thanks a bunch...

Now what parts do I need? I may not be the most mechanically inclined, but I can figure things out... just trying to look up replacement parts and can't figure it out...

 

Axle seals are a PITA and bad bearings can cause them to fail prematurely. You'll need a press to do it the right way, but if you search you'll find other methods.

 

so pretty much what I'm gonna need is...

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par...mString=search

and some rented tools??

 

I'd get the parts from Toyota.

Great write up here.

 

Well it looks like I've found the source....



Other ideas?

 

GAH I don't even have a wrench big enough for the filler..... Anyone know the size right off hand??

 

Reseal the diff.
Toyota black FIPG.
Easy.

:wabbit2:

 

24 or 25mm depending on how used it is.
I replace all mine with low profile round plugs that have 10mm Allen insert.

:wabbit2:

 

Get a 6 sided socket, not a more common 12 sided socket to remove the fill then drian plugs. A 6 sided socket will prevent you from rounding the corners on the fill plug.

I use a 24mm on my 1999 4runner.

 

OK so it's really not as bad as you all thought it was?

 

OK well I'll start there. Definitely cheaper than a $200 seal set. I'll drain it, clean it up, seal it, refill it, pray that's the problem.

135,000 miles and the rear diff hasn't been touched anyway... shame on me..

Thank you thank you

 

Got a brilliant idea... got a 4 way tire wrench.. only goes up to 23mm though guess I gotta buy one.. and a 1/2" drive ratchet... bummer

 

The oil on the bottom of the axle tube and brake still point to axle seal...I'd at least pull the drum and have a look.

 

ok ok ok fine fine fine enough standing around at the tail gate talking about it... I'll jack her up and take a look....

Socket is $6
Ratchet is $20
FIPG is $13.70
New diff fluid $??