Front Differential Leak?

I woke up this morning to what I believe is a front diff leak. I put new cv axles in but that was about 6 months ago and I have never had any issues. I’m assuming I just need a new gasket for my front diff? Let me know what you guys think. And thanks.

 

Check the torque on the fil an drain plugs and clean it up first. Looks to me like it’s running down the diff from there.

 

Just got up under and checked it. Looks like busted cv axle seal on my drivers side. Seems like it’s leaking down from there. I saw lots of YouTube videos on how to fix it so I’ll do my research.

 

that is a fairly common occurrence. Especially if you just changed the axle. Those seals are finicky.

 

I had to redo the axle seal on my 1st gen a few times before getting it right, if they aren't seated 110% correctly (correct depth all around, not too far in or out) they will leak. It was frustrating

 

Should I just fix the side that’s leaking. Or swap them both out. I’d hate to do both and end up make both sides leak.

 

I would just fix the side that's leaking. If it isn't broken, don't break it.

 

Could someone post a link to the seal part I would need. When I look it up they all say axle shaft seal, rear. Does it have to be for the front? It’s for a 2005 Tacoma. Trd sport. 4x4

 

Part #

$12 90311-47027 Toyota Oil Seal - 90311-47027

90311-47027

 

Check the needle bearing for excess play. If the needle bearing is worn out, changing the seal won't work for long. I just went through this.

 

Kinda think you’d know if the axle was broken for sure.
But I haven’t done it so.
Driver side axle seal.
You may have a bad needle bearing that scored axle and is leaking.
Did you have a vibe at 35-40 that went away in 4wheel?

 

How do I check the needle bearing for excess play? I haven’t taken it in four wheel yet since I only use it when I go in the snow a few times a year. If the needle bearing is bad what would be needed to fix that?

 

Jack the truck up and and see how much wiggle you have where the cv axle enters the front diff. For comparison, just use the passenger side cv. If there's a bunch of slop, in comparison to the passenger side, you've probably got a bad needle bearing.

To fix it, you'll either have to replace it with another needle bearing, or an aftermarket bushing. There are a few companies that make budhings, ecgs and yukon gear, off the top of my head. You could also need a new cv, but that's unlikely if you've just replaced it.

 

Ok after further research I ordered a new seal and am going to upgrade to the ECGS bearing and go away from the needle bearing. It’s makes sense to just be safe and upgrade the away from the needle bearing since I have this leak and my truck is lifted 3 inches already. I don’t have the vibe. I do have a groan noise when the truck is cold. But after 5 or so minutes once it warms up it goes away.

 

3 inch lift did you do a diff drop?