*Picture* Leaky Rear Differential.......

I have a 2010 Tacoma with 19,000 kms. I've gone through 2 oil changes, havn't done any preformance mods, no lift, tires, nothing. Almost all stock.

I got curious when I read about frame rust issues so I looked under the truck. This is what I saw:

* I dont have a digital camera on me, so I found a picture online that looks exactly like my rear diff, same type of leak, same issue*



Mine is a little worse though, since I can see some spray of "oil" on the gas tank and a little on the drive shaft. This isn't normal or is it? I'm taking it to Toyota next week but I thought I would get an opinion from you guys? What causes this?

 

Hmm ok, how does this happen though? I guess I just want to know how I can prevent this from happening in the future?

 

Did you check to see if the 3rd member is properly torqued to the axle housing? There have been numerous threads where members have experienced leaks just like you have and the nuts that secure the 3rd member to the axle housing have become loosened. If they are loose, be sure you use the proper torque sequence and specifications when tightening the 3rd back up.


EDIT: I just noticed you have a bran new truck. I wouldn't even mess with it. Take it to the dealer and have them deal with the problem.

 

I like this:



And if you wheel - check the torque of those bolts on a semi-regular basis.

 

My rear diff looks exactly like this. Toyota said it was normal and the fluid was full. I don't believe them, but it is documented if something happens later.

 

There is some truth to this. As long as you check the level every blue moon you will be okay. If you like to tow or wheel... check more often.

 

spray on the fuel tank and bed is probably a leaky pinion seal. what you have is really nothing big, more like a seep then a leak.

 

Would anyone happen to have the torque sequence / specs for this? Just noticed I have the same seepage on mine, and have apparently misplaced my repair manual...

Mike

 

Thanks Chris!

Mike

 

If I were the technician working on your truck, I'd clean it then ask you to return. Leaks dont usually occur on top of or side of the diff; most of the time its on the bottom. I would also check to torque.

There is a possibility that is could be leaking, but cleaning it first with brake clean and re-checking is the best thing to do.

 

I vote for your answer. It's logical.

 

And why is this a big issue?

Do nothing except take it in to the dealer since you should still be under warranty! Like someone else said they'll prolly just check torque and tell you it's normal. Which it may not be but so what since it's really hard to see what bad can happen with just a tiny seepage like that pic shows. You're far more likely to have far worse problems if you let them try to replace the gasket material.

Also, it can't be 'oil spray' you're seeing, not from that. The differential doesn't use pressure-fed oiling and the housing isn't under pressure. I go with the slinging from grease in the u-joint but on the outside chance it's oil from the pinion seal then that IS a problem that should be dealt with...under warranty!

Actually...just had a second idea...could be a plugged up differential housing breather: that would pressurize the housing as it heats up, blowing oil past the seal and gaskets which aren't designed to handle it.

 

Very good answer!!! Nice!

EDIT: I HATE stealer installed problems!!

 

x2

I had a similar Diff leak with my 2009...took it to the dealer and they took care of the issue at no cost...the diff bolts weren't torqued to spec...but don't touch it cuz it will void the warranty since they mark all the bolts...take it in and if you're as lucky as I was, theyll even wash your truck for free.

 

Just used this stuff again last Wednesday - I love this stuff!

Pun optional.