98 Tacoma Front Differential/Axle Oil Seals.

Hi out there,
I noticed gear oil leaking from my front diff. So I removed the driver's side axle from the differential housing. I noticed what I thought was the metal from inside the old seal. When I removed it and compared it to the new one I realized it was some sort of dust cover.
Should I have reinstalled it? I did. I see no mention of it in any diagrams in my manual nor do I see it in any YouTube videos. It is not affixed to the differential housing or the axle. It just intermittently spins when I turn the hub.

Thanks ,
Scott

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld

 

That's the oil deflector from the CV axle, which leads me to believe your CV axles need replaced, you seals may be fine, but if you're doing axles it's a good time to do the seals too as cheap insurance from having to do a job twice.

I also recommend the ECGS needle bearing replacement bushing for longevity and reliability it better supports the CV stub shaft within the carrier.

 

I was actually doing the seals at the differential housing.
Well guess I'm back under her.
Thanks, Key.
Though I think I'll try to reattach the cover first. Can't justify spending without trying.

 

Probably wouldn't hurt anything to leave it removed, I know they call it the oil deflector but I don't really see much reason why the oil would need to be deflected from there unless they're going overkill to prevent gear oil from reaching the brakes to which... I suppose...



If you do decide to try and reaffix it I would make sure it's far enough on and held strongly and straightly enough or it could prematurely wear your seal.


But yeah pretty darn tootin you're holding one of those there:

 

That's the puppy, couldn't really get a clear view from my angle.
Thanks again!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome to TW!