Whilst underneath my P1 changing back-box this weekend, I noticed a bead of oil on the underside of the rear diff casing. The casing was also generally pretty oily.

Is this cause for concern or do they all do it? Looks like a possible leaking gasket to me.... but I just wondered if they were generally known for being over-filled and gradually leaking. (a bizarre idea, I know... but)

Cheers,

R.

 

When was the car last serviced??

[SOME] garages fill the rear diff up to the level and a bit trickles out, they then refit the plug without cleaning or making sure it is sealed properly.

Rob

 

It was serviced in April... about 2500 miles ago. But it was only the £90 service (22500miles/18months) ... didn't think they touched the diff on those? Next one's the biggie at 2yrs/30000miles/£400 (even though it'll only have done 20000miles max).

 

Give the area a good clean, get all the muck off and monitor the situation.
If it is still leaking, all that's usually required is either a new gasket or the plug fitting with a little PTFE tape.
That should cure it.

Jon.

 

Thanks... a sensible (and quite obvious) suggestion. Cheers.

 

Dremel,

Are you sure there is a gasket to replace? There doesn't seem to be one on mine or in the workshop manual for the (97) turbo rear diff.

 

there are two metal type gaskets which go on either drive shaft! ha one of mine changed due to a leak! gasket worked out a HUGE £1! shame mines leakin again! grrrrrr!
steve

 

Got me thinking now............even if there's no gasket,(a while since I had my diff out) smear a little jointing compound on the faces before refitting.(such as instant gasket,etc)
Also make sure the faces are clean & flat and clear of any burrs.

Jon.

 

Thanks guys... but she's under warranty. So if there *is* anything wrong I'll hand her over to the (ahem) experts. Useful tips for later life tho.

 

"there are two metal type gaskets which go on either drive shaft! ha one of mine changed due to a leak! gasket worked out a HUGE £1! shame mines leakin again! grrrrrr!
steve "

Hum. There is an oil seal on each driveshaft output, and I beleive these are plastic. Once had the box overhauled and they had to come out and change the oil seal at least twice to stop it weeping. I was commenting on the lack of gaskets on the oil change plugs, forgot ahout the driveshaft oil seals.