2007 Jeep Wrangler Tiny Seepage in Rear Differential

LYNDONE

MEMBER
2007 JEEP WRANGLER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
32,800 MILES

I found oil build up coming from the rear differential and thinking it is a leak. I brought my Jeep to a Chrysler repair shop to have a look but found that this is normal. I told them, I have always drove a jeep wrangler since 1992 and I have never experience this before, but they insisted it is just a seepage and left it at that. But then again, they insisted to have all the brake fluid drain out and change the rear brakes! ? which was going to cost me about close to $600. Please advise of what you think

. Attached is a photo of my Jeep rear differential. Thank you.

Monday, July 20th, 2009 AT 9:39 PM

6 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Honestly, based on the picture, it doesn't look out of the ordinary. You could do two things. First, with a 3/8" ratchet, check the fluid level. It should be even with the bottom of the bolt hole. I bet you'll find that is stays full. However, if it bothers you (and if you're like me, it would) just purchase a new gasket at the local parts store (around 5 bucks) remove the cover, clean everything up, reinstall the cover with the new gasket, and refill the differential with the recommended gear lube.

Again, based on what I see on the picture, it's not a big problem. Just make sure it stays full. Or, as I mentioned, replace the gasket. It'll take about 30 minutes to do.

If you have other questions, let me know, and thanks for using 2carpros. Com
Joe

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Monday, July 20th, 2009 AT 9:47 PM

LYNDONE

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4 POSTS

Thank you for the advise and feedback Joe. I will check the fluid to be certain if it is full and may replace the gasket as well. I can't find a gasket for 2007 Jeep wrangler but I did find this a Permatex Automatic Transmission RTV Sealant. Can I use this instead?
Shoud I used brake cleaner to clean the components in the rear differential or should I not bother cleaning the inside? Thanks

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Monday, July 20th, 2009 AT 11:58 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

If the fluid is clean, leave it. If it is dirty or contaminated, then you can clean it with brake clean. However, make sure it all evaproates before replaceiing the cover.

I'm really surprised you can't find the gasket. I'm not a big fan of sealants. I always say if both surfaces are clean and dry, the gasket is the best bet. However, if one isn't available, you may want to contact your jeep dealer and ask what type of sealant they use. I'm sure what you described will work, but better safe than sorry.

Where all did you try to locate a gasket? Let me know how many bolts are on the differential and I'll check here where I live. I feel confident I can get one.

Joe

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Tuesday, July 21st, 2009 AT 2:13 PM

LYNDONE

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4 POSTS

I opened the rear differential and is full and clean. But I will change the fluid anyway and possibly the cover when I have a new gasket to replace it with. However, I tried locating the gasket via internet, but no luck. I will contact the Chrysler Jeep parts dept. And will purchase the gasket or lube recommended by chrysler for this type of repair. Thanks again for the advise.

Lyndon

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Tuesday, July 21st, 2009 AT 8:21 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Let me know if you can't get the gasket. I'll check near where I live for you. I know a lot of the people in the local parts stores, so they usually go the distance for me. If I find one, I let you know who has it and their number so you can have it shipped to you.

As far as the gear lube, I believe it is a standard GL-5 gear lube. Confirm that with them.

Two more things. Let me know if you have questions, and thanks for using 2carpros. Com. It's a pleasure helping good people.

Joe

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Tuesday, July 21st, 2009 AT 10:39 PM

LYNDONE