A differential in a vehicle is installed to ensure that when a car turns, the outer wheel rotates faster than the inner wheel. The differential housing is at the rear for rear-wheel vehicles, comprising dark and heavy oil. On the other hand in the used cars for sale in Bahamas, it is part of the transmission housing in front-wheel drive vehicles, and the same fluid is used. The fluid lubricates the pinion gears and rings, transferring power from the wheel axle to the driveshaft.
If you are experiencing differential fluid leaks, the fluid lubricating the gears will run low and damage the gears. You will observe traces of oil on the underside of the differential when your car is leaking differential fluid. Or you may observe puddles of fluid on the ground beneath your differential. There may be a whining sound as the gears mesh as there would not be enough fluid to make the gears operate smoothly.
The Causes Of A Differential Leak
Differential Gasket
The purpose of the differential gasket is that it seals the differential cover and the case. If the gasket becomes worn or damaged over time, it might result in leaks in your differential. If this is the case, you will have to switch the gasket completely to amend the drip.
Differential Pinion Seal
It is at the rear of the differential, which works for sealing the place where the driveshaft gets into the differential. This seal may become damaged over time which is also a reason for a differential leak. If you observe leakage, it is better to replace it immediately.
Differential Side Seals
These are on the sides of the differential, to seal the bearings in place. The seals may become worn out or damaged over time, leading to a differential leak. If you suspect the leaking of the side seals, you must replace them as soon as possible.
Damaged Differential Cover
There is a tool to safeguard the internal components of your differential from any water entry or damage. It is known as a differential cover. If there is a crack or damage in the cover, it will lead to leaks and other issues in your differential. The damage could be a result of anything like a stone striking it or because of corrosion. You have to replace the whole cover if you cannot repair it to fix this problem.
Leaks in Differential Tubes
These tubes carry the differential fluid from the differential to the axle. Movement of the fluid is essential from the differential to the axle. If the level of fluid declines on the moving parts of the axle, it can be damaging. The tubes may develop leaks over time, causing a loss in the differential fluid. If you observe that your differential fluid is low or there is a leak from the differential tubes, replace them immediately.
Worn Axle Seal
At the end of the axle, where it is connected to the differential, there is an axle seal. The seal helps in keeping the fluid from coming out of the axle. The seal might become damaged or worn out over time, causing a leak in the differential. If you observe that the seal is leaking, replace it quickly.
Troubleshooting Of A Differential Leak
Rear Differential Leak Sealer
The most convenient and hassle-free way to fix the differential leak issue is to add sealer to the differential fluid via the oil fill plug. It is better than spending time to find the leak source. You can find various good leak sealers in the market. It will help in repairing the leak and restoring the seal as it was previously.
Replacing the Cover
If you see any leak in the cover or there is a deterioration because of regular wear and tear, it should be changed to bring the differential to the previous condition. The differential cover is made of either silicon or rubber, and replacing it is not difficult. Before resealing the new one, just wipe the cleaning surface.
Resealing the Sides
One can reseal the sides when the fluid drips on the rear brakes. This method takes time as you have to remove the axle shafts. You then have to replace the damaged seals with new ones. Put the shafts together to finish the task.
Replacing the Pinion Seal
When the surrounding seal on the front side of the different wears out over time, it should be replaced. One has to dislocate the yoke at the front side of the differential and pry out the seal. A new seal is placed, and the yoke should be attached to its components.
Conclusion
You never know; sometimes, the problem can be bigger than a leak. If that is the case, you will have to replace the whole differential. You might not be able to do it yourself, so it is suggested that you should consult a mechanic for that. The purpose is to make driving safe and fix the issue before it gets bigger. It is always better to think and act in advance to prevent any mishap. Do not do it all by yourself. Go to a mechanic if things are out of hand or you do not understand the issue.
Any noise, fluid, burning smell, etc., are all signs that your differential needs to be fixed. It is an indication that you need to prevent any damage or expensive repair and enhance the differential’s life. Various brands of differential stop leaks are there in the market, varying in price. Most are safe and can extend the differential life if used properly. They can even prevent any damage
