Semi truck differential leak Check for air leaks with these 3 procedures: Remember these procedures need to be done when the truck has more than 100 PSI, but best if they are done right after the tru Heavy Truck Hub Seal Replacement: Standard Labor Time Explained Hub seals often leak due to wear or improper installation, causing grease loss and bearing contamination. It uses a rubber lip-type seal to keep gear lube from slipping past the pinion flange during normal operation. Front chunk (Power Divider) input seal was leaking, we will show you how to remove and replace your seal. Is it the axle with the power divider or the rear axle? If it is the axle with the power divider make sure air is not leaking past the power divider actuator, if it is it will pressurize the axle and will cause seal failure and can blow the axle vent off. Sep 14, 2023 · In the video, I noticed a leak in my differential and decided to address it. Dec 29, 2008 · Just keep it full until you get home and fix it right. Prevent costly breakdowns with our 2025 expert guide. Get a can of brake cleaner and really clean up the area. I use a mig Aug 25, 2021 · However, most truck and similarly designed car owners ignore the ever so important rear differential. Im using 75w-90 oil. If the vehicle is equipped with a spring brake modulating valve, typically found on trucks, towing trucks and buses, the rear axle brakes should also apply and release by exhausting spring brake air. I purchased gear oil, gasket maker, and other supplies to try and fix the issue. You will know the axle seals are bad because gear oil will drip down the tires and sling everywhere. Read more about it here. Could make sure mud has not clogged the axle vent. You don't have to get the grinder & welder out, & you don't have to replace the axle. Discover common axle problems in heavy-duty trucks and expert solutions for fixing them. Here is what you should know about durability, maintenance, and repair. Designed to mix with all synthetic and conventional petroleum GL-4, GL-5, MT-1 gear oil / lube grades including 75W-90, 80W-90, 75W-140, 85W-140 and all others. The worn-out differentials produce a banging sound, and oil leaks from the axle seals. Can you reuse a wheel seal? Sometimes wheel seals leak because they are improperly installed. Under normal circumstances, they will keep slaving away faithfully without calling for attention. Exchange Differentials from truck differentials to tractor, heavy equipment , semi, logging, farming, industrial and automotive use. As the last step, you can replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturers suggested ft-lbs. Keep the drive axle full to prevent the bearings from running dry. It takes 5-7 minutes to patch Sep 17, 2020 · A mechanic will be able to detect if your axle seal is leaking from the very first time they check your vehicle. Dec 30, 2015 · Discover the risks and safety concerns of driving with a leaking axle seal. Find symptoms and when to take action with YourMechanic's expert insights. How Do Semi-Truck Differentials Work? Semi-truck differentials help the outside and inside wheels to rotate independently of each other while taking turns. Understanding its functionality and components can help in better maintenance and troubleshooting of semi truck differentials. Open-handed locking and limited slip are types of this equipment. I’m guessing the diff lock button light is not coming on because the piston isn’t movi Feb 10, 2011 · The axle vent should be taken off and cleaned at every service. ) Safety Valve “Blows Off” -Safety valve out of adjustment An excellent rear axle should go for up to 100000miles. ) Air Pressure Drops Quickly With Engine Stopped and Brakes Fully Applied , rotochamber or rake cylinder. Gear lube is cheap. One call does it all. Disassembly requires labeling components for later reassembly, during which the ring gear, pinion gear, bearings, and carrier are removed. Inspect and clean the transfer case breather to ensure proper ventilation. If you are using a really deep starting transmission gear ratio for off-highway use expect the axle to break soon (thru-shaft, diff. 6K subscribers Aug 1, 2012 · I do this to all of the common solid axles not only that, I worked on a fleet of trucks & my family's fleet and they all have fluid up to the bottom of the fill plug. Here are some signs you might notice for bad carrier bearing on semi-truck driveshafts: Vibrations: You might feel shaking or vibrations coming from underneath the vehicle, especially at certain speeds. Get your truck back on the road smoothly! Double check the axle breather is able to vent properly. to/2Kn7WJq Dec 8, 2024 · I'm changing the differential fluid in a meritor axle, changing the axle flange gasket, and installing a new drain plug, fill plug, and axle breather. He said when the hydraulic fluid How to remove and replace differential pinion yoke seal on semi truckMilwaukee M18 FUEL 1" High Torque Impact Wrench w/ ONE-KEY Kithttps://amzn. Understanding Axle Configuration Semi trucks typically have multiple axles to distribute weight evenly. Heavy Duty Hub Seal Replacement DIY CHEAP | Semi Trailer Axle Leak Repair | HOW TO FIX | How to Replace A Wheel Seal on Semi/ Wheel Seal Leak/ Wheel Seal Installation/100kMiles Inspections Jan 11, 2011 · Pinion Seal Wont stop leaking Discussion in ' Kenworth Forum ' started by Fishell Trucking, Nov 18, 2011. Trying a different way that worked out really well! Nov 3, 2025 · Noticing a rear differential leak? Our guide covers symptoms, common causes, and DIY fixes to prevent costly damage. The front axle steers the truck, while rear axles provide power and support. These unassuming components play a pivotal role in the overall health and safety of your truck, yet they often go overlooked until it's too late. -Leaking brake val e. Discover how proper maintenance & timely repairs save money & keep your fleet running smoothly. Input shaft seal replacement for Merritor differential. Apr 17, 2024 · Learn how to change semi-truck wheel seals with our easy DIY guide. This unit is a Md2014x Merritor power divider brought to us by a customer with complaints of a vibration caused by a loose yoke. Explore common axle problems in heavy-duty trucks and discover effective solutions. ‍ Final words And BOOM! Now you know how to change wheel seals. Often, leaks are found where the gear carrier bolts to the axle, but you'll need to find Air suspension got you down? Fix it yourself with these troubleshooting tips for heavy-duty trucks! Learn to identify leaks, check valves & sensors, monitor pressure & more. Jul 16, 2012 · Differential air leak Discussion in ' Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ] ' started by TruckerPete1990, Dec 14, 2022. Many of us have witnessed firsthand the havoc that can result from wheel seal failures. Jul 17, 2007 · Inspect for hub oil leaking from the inner seal onto the brakes and inner tire sidewall. Use "the right stuff" and the process I show you for 100% guaranteed no leaks in your diff for years! Dec 28, 2022 · This article is about differential leaks: what causes them, how to fix the problem and how you can prevent the differential from leaking. The problem is that they leak on the INSIDE side and the reason for this is not just bad seal, but rust and pitting of the area where the seal seals. Make sure you watch the whole video to follow the instructions. Every vehicle is different but each has a recommended mileage interval for replacing the oil. Semi Truck Freightliner Cascadia Disc Brakes Axle Hub wheel Seal Replacement and ABS Tone Ring Windows 11 Is a Lost Cause. Checking the oil level is part of normal maintenance. May 22, 2025 · Rear differential replacements cost $2,500-$6,000. You don't want to get this seal repaired and have it blow again. Are the bolts that hold the pinion housing onto the diff housing tight? Check that first. Apr 2, 2013 · Oil coming out of breather on rear differential on 579 Discussion in ' Peterbilt Forum ' started by Edjahman, Jul 25, 2018. Dec 19, 2019 · Meritor 160 series tandem has 3. Apr 30, 2024 · Catching problems early is the key to containing maintenance costs because a semi truck wheel seal replacement will cost far less than a major job such as a spindle repair or axle replacement. Jun 14, 2021 · In this video, Steve will cover How To Check For & Fix Common Leaks On Your Semi-truck. You will always detect oil splashing from the seal. Add STP to slow the leaks until you can get repairs. I removed the suspension and u bolts, so I could get in there and find the whole crack. Feb 26, 2022 · Hi, I have a problem where I press the electric diff lock button on a 2004 mack vision bogie tipper and the light on switch doesnt come on and I can hear a heap of air coming out of the rear most diff breather. When the truck is stopped and the brakes are engaged, there are no issues. Fortunately, this article will explain why your rear differential is most likely leaking and provide a few simple steps that you can take to get the leak under control. Prevent costly heavy-duty truck axle repairs! Learn common causes (overloading, bad roads) & warning signs (vibrations, leaks). Pecking machine Heels the car The car catches a rut The car pulls to the side Uneven tread wear Extraneous noise in the differential One side of the car sank Penetrating suspension Sagging springs The car is swinging Knock in suspension Hub seal leaking Semi-axle oil seal leak Bridge seal leak Shakes the car while driving Suspension noise Dec 9, 2010 · Differentials leaking from breather? Discussion in ' Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ] ' started by thesvg, May 6, 2011. However, when your vehicle starts showing signs of a front differential leak, suddenly, this underappreciated part grabs your attention. Anything you slather on top of the area with oil leaking out continuously will not bond. Oct 29, 2023 · Leaking rear axle wheel seal on 2016, 3500. May 20, 2024 · Heavy Hauler Pack | Leaked By SemiTrucks | LEAKED FIRST HERE! The Best Pack Ever Leaked For Trucking Or Any Kind Of DOT Work Is Here, ENJOY! This Listing Comes With: 1x Kenworth W900b Heavy Tri-tag axle semi 4x Long Beam Dolly trailers 1x Ford F250 escort truck 1x Script Kenworth W900b: -Modkit F FOOT VALVE EXHAUST LEAK PARK BRAKES RELEASED YELLOW DASH CONTROL V VALVE EXHAUST LEAK IN PARK POSITION AND SERVICE BRAKES APPLIED Check anti-compound double check valve portion for feedback to foot or dash control valve. When doing an air brake leak test, your truck’s air brake system should be able to reach operating pressure within 45 seconds or less. I talked to the mechanic that did the job and he said the number one cause of seals leaking is breather caps stopping up (On my J2020 it''s the cap on the right side of the axle). Jul 15, 2010 · we installed 5. There are many common issues you might run into as an owner operator such as fuel leaks, coolant leaks, air Jul 7, 2018 · I have two semi trailers, which leak gear oil from the spindles/axles. The leak is significant enough that the brakes can't keep up. Oct 2, 2025 · Rebuilding a differential involves a step-by-step process that starts with draining the differential oil and removing the differential from the axle. Bar’s Leaks Axle & Differential Gear Repair is a treatment additive for use with automotive, heavy duty, agricultural, marine and industrial gear oils. My only concern from the photos and videos is this picture of the rear differential, with what looks like differential fluid on the outside. Finding a Leak for Differential Leak Repair. Have a current issue Have a freightliner columbia 2007 The 2nd axel differential leaked alot of oil last week through Oct 28, 2023 · Differentials often remain in the shadows of more talked-about parts like engines or brakes. Title: Meritor drive axles with optional driver controlled differential lock (DCDL)- axle shaft removal and towing precautions The truck has 160k miles. Mar 12, 2018 · The fourth-generation F-body is equipped with GM's 7. Learn how to change the oil on a Freightliner Cascadia semi truck differential in this step-by-step guide. Feb 23, 2020 · I have a freightliner cascadia and I noticed a small leak on my front differential a week ago but it's been driving just fine, no noises, grinding,etc. To reseal the rear cover leaking on the Eaton D404/405 differential, first support the driveshaft to prevent damage. wich ever comes first. Axles generate a lot of heat running down the road. Jun 13, 2022 · The average cost of a rear differential replacement ranges from $1,755 to $5,425 depending on whether you go to a mechanic or DIY. Durable and efficient, Mack axles combine innovative designs and advanced engineering to help maximize uptime and carry your business further. Check and Adjust Axle Oil Level Check axle oil level for a PACCAR 40k tandem rear axle. Inspect the hub for damage and clean the sealing surface thoroughly. Feb 18, 2017 · Jump to page : 1 Now viewing page 1 [50 messages per page] Jun 14, 2021 · In this video, Steve will cover How To Check For & Fix Common Leaks On Your Semi-truck. Truly Destined for the Garbage. They can last for up to 150000 to 160000 miles. I have noticed my lights staying on after I turn the lockers off at times in the truck. Jan 29, 2011 · If it is the first drive axle in a tandem truck you will probably have to drop the inter axle shaft and remove the output yoke. If the system takes more time than that to come up to pressure, it may indicate a leak somewhere in the brake lines. Replace damaged airline sections with appropriate air hose rated for your system. This issue is about ensuring smooth turns, proper power distribution to wheels, and maintaining overall vehicle health. Use "the right stuff" and the process I show you for 100% guaranteed no leaks in your diff for years! How to replace differential oil on a semi truck (volvo) Cardinal Truck Service 11K subscribers Subscribe Learn how to replace axle seals on a solid rear axle that is leaking gear oil. Inspect the airline connected to the axle differential for visible cracks or breaks. Next up is the differential/rear axle which I Mar 21, 2013 · It "unloads" the differential, meaning the axle shafts release their hold on the differential housing and allows them to unlock. I just drained and filled the front hubs, which was quite easy. The tractor unit Here's how I solved a problem of the rear differential leaking in my mini truck. It’s important to note that any time you’re dealing with car Learn how to replace axle seals on a solid rear axle that is leaking gear oil. Nonetheless, changing the rear differential fluid frequently is a great way to keep it working for years to come. Located in Dallas, Texas, we plan to use our youtube channel to educate truck owners on how to keep their semi-truck maintenance and running safely on the road. What Could Make 4 days ago · The most common sign of a leak in the gladhand seals is the loss of air brake pressure. Apr 2, 2009 · Truck Maintenance - rear end leak?? - I just noticed my rear, rear had a film of oil around what I would call the pressure relief screwed into top side of rear. Lo and behold after I got home and put on some 80 miles one of the ones they replaced was leaking big time so Have a current issue Have a freightliner columbia 2007 The 2nd axel differential leaked alot of oil last week through Oct 28, 2023 · Differentials often remain in the shadows of more talked-about parts like engines or brakes. May 2, 2024 · Semi-truck differential repair costs can be serious. Clunking and banging noise: There could be loud, sudden noises like clunking or banging, especially when accelerating or decelerating. Oil leaking from the differential breather indicates excessive pressure inside the housing, often caused by worn seals or blocked breathers. Lack of oil: Even a tiny leak can mean the components in your differential end up grinding against each other. Yesterday I did a local run which took me approximately 65 miles one way. Regardless what make and model of semi truck you have (as long as it has air brakes), this is a general test procedure for a DIY air leak inspection. Most semis have 5 axles total. Freightliner inter-axle differential problem / bad o-ring/ oil leak and airleak! Members only Valeriu Moscalu 80. Jul 31, 2022 · How to Operate Semi Truck Inter-Axle Differential Lockout Control The inter-axle differential lockout control is used in trucks with air brakes and either automatic or manual transmissions. As required, replenish the differential. From drive axles to steer and trailer axles, learn to identify warning signs and understand the importance of preventive maintenance. Or if parking overnight facing down hill you get a bit of a drip. Additionally, check condition of the fluid itself. Customer: Hello, I have a semi truck where air is leaking from a valve. Jan 19, 2018 · Axle vents are something few people ever think about, but they play an important role in keeping the axle in operating condition. Replacing a heavy truck hub seal typically involves removing the wheel, brake components, and hub assembly. How to Replace Wheel Seal On A Semi Truck Step by Step - Kenworth, Volvo, Freightliner, Cascadia#wheelsealreplacementonsemiPlaylist Recommendation: Truck Mai Apr 30, 2024 · Catching problems early is the key to containing maintenance costs because a semi truck wheel seal replacement will cost far less than a major job such as a spindle repair or axle replacement. What could be causing this valve to leak? I've replaced the bottom half but could only find the lower part, so the top half remains the old Mar 12, 2019 · I'm getting all of my maintenance up-to-date on our 2008 Tiffin Allegro Open Road FRED. Is this too thick? Going to cause too much heat? Anyone familiar with the hub oil? When axle has been disassembled or housing, axle shafts or wheel equipment replaced, check axle assembly for proper differential actions before operating vehicle. What is the approximate cost and labor time to replace an axle seal? Feb 18, 2017 · Jump to page : 1 Now viewing page 1 [50 messages per page] Apr 17, 2024 · Learn how to change semi-truck wheel seals with our easy DIY guide. 5-inch 10-bolt rear axle. We offer same day shipping Worldwide at discount prices. Drive axle seals will also leak onto the inner sidewalls but the source of wheel bearing lubrication is the drive axle itself. Your mechanic can check and top up levels Nobody does differentials better. Covered under warranties? Learn how to save and avoid out-of-pocket expenses now. From heavy-duty trucks and refuse vehicles to light-duty 4x4s, we have the assemblies, units and repair parts Aug 20, 2011 · I was informed today that my rear wheel seal is starting to leak. Semi truck axles play a key role in supporting the vehicle’s weight and helping it move. They come in different types and configurations to suit various needs. . What is the approximate cost and labor time to replace an axle seal? How to Change a Rear Differential on Heavy Duty Truck Rugged HD 2. Dec 4, 2019 · Rear drive axle pinion seal leak Discussion in ' Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Mechanics Forum ' started by mile marker 27, Mar 12, 2024. Jun 3, 2007 · My axle cracked at the same place and along the weld seams last year on my 402s. . In this post, we'll dive into the wheel-end world of wheel seals––also called hub seals and bearing seals–– to explore why they fail, and how you can In my experience, This is THE BEST way to seal up your leaky differential. Mar 29, 2023 · What causes a differential to fail? A number of factors can cause a differential to start failing or break entirely, many of which are avoidable. Read on to learn about rear differential leaks and its symptoms. Aug 1, 2012 · I do this to all of the common solid axles not only that, I worked on a fleet of trucks & my family's fleet and they all have fluid up to the bottom of the fill plug. I go by alldata as I don't have factory manual. Hi a Guys, working out here at the ADL shop on truck 792 fixing a leaking differential housings. May 23, 2025 · Leaking hub seal on your semi truck? Discover what a hub seal does, how to fix leaks, and when to replace it. Differentials and related repair parts for all makes and models such as Differential, Front or rear drive axle, axle shaft and Feb 11, 2020 · After taking wrong advice from my local parts store, where they said the Hub oil is Lucas's gear oil. After replacing the differential seal, persistent pressure suggests transfer case venting issues. n drive gears or drive coupl its . Mar 5, 2017 · Jump to page : 1 Now viewing page 1 [50 messages per page] Jan 24, 2022 · If you notice water in the differential, this video and post reviews how water can leak in the rear differential, and how to diagnose and fix this problem Oct 15, 2007 · 1999 - 2016 Super Duty - Rear Axle seal keeps leaking - Had a rear axle seal develope a leak, so instead of doing it I took it to my local Ford dealer and had them replace both as long as they were doing one. Learn about the different parts and components of a truck rear axle with a helpful diagram. What Could Make Oct 29, 2023 · Leaking rear axle wheel seal on 2016, 3500. Dec 19, 2024 · When the rear differential starts leaking, it will cause problems. When checking the oil level, it is recommended that a visual inspection for leaks be performed. I grinded a v in the all cracks. Part of the series: Fix Differential Leaks: Car Repair Tips. halves etc). You might only be leaking on short trips while seals are cold but stops as it warms up. The reason is rear differentials aren’t regular service units. Axle seals usually blow out when the pressure can't vent out of the breather, so the axle seal is the next best option for expanding gasses. Save money by fixing an axle gasket leak YOURSELF! With detailed, step-by-step instructions, Steve shows you how to check for a leak and fix the axle seal le How to fix Differential Cover oil leak on freightliner semi truck , kenworth, volvo, ect. Fixing Air Leak from Axle Differential Airline Airline cracks or breaks causing leaks; faulty fittings leading to air pressure loss in axle differential systems. Found out they actually make gear oil. 35K subscribers Subscribe Raise the other end of the axle 6 to 10 inches with a drive hub, then wait for the oil to move from the differential to the wheel end. I filled my 1ton ford rear axle with hub oil. Learn what these repairs cost in 2024, what might happen if you ignore the problems and more. If that's the case, there are steel shims in there that are used to adjust the pinion depth. How Long Does the Rear Axle Last? With detailed, step-by-step instructions, Steve shows you how to check for a leak and fix the axle seal leak on your own. Apr 20, 2009 · As a precautionary measure I drained some oil off to make sure it wasn't contaminated. Jan 2, 2023 · For most semi-trucks servicing cross-country routes, keeping your rear differential in tip-top condition is essential. Nov 24, 2022 · What is the most common cause of a brake chamber leaking air? Find out all you need to know about this issue and what you can do about it. Refilled the differential to the top of the fill hole. Rear differential leaks and driveshaft yoke removal difficulties are common in this model's Eaton D404/405 differential. -Leaking tubing or hose line -Excessive water in reservoi s. Understand how each piece functions and interacts with the rest of the axle system. Feb 26, 2024 · In conclusion, a semi truck differential is an essential component that allows for smooth and efficient power transfer while enabling the wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds. I drained fluids and removed the vent and replaced it with a 1/4 QD compressor fitting. Replace the pinion seal if you have to remove the yoke. they all have NO leak anywhere and we replace hub seals every time we do brake job on rear axle. 07 as fastest ratio) is a linehaul axle and recommended as an highway only axle typically pulling 80,000 lbs (and depending on grades upto 125,000 lbs in some cases). Which is basically molasses. For more than 80+ years, we’ve set the standard for rebuilt and remanufactured differentials. Nov 14, 2025 · Does your heavy duty truck have a differential leak? Here's what you need to look for and how to deal with a leaking differential. In today's video, Ryan is showing his awesome viewers how to change semi truck wheel seal step by step. However, expect them to wear with time since they constantly flex and rotate to accommodate the rough road. Because your trucks haul substantial weight over a considerable distance, there will come a point when your rear differentials take so much punishment. When axle has been disassembled or housing, axle shafts or wheel equipment replaced, check axle assembly for proper differential actions before operating vehicle. The yoke usually must be removed by loosening the retaining nut and carefully sliding it off the pinion shaft. - ontinously or In -Loose drive pulley. Does anyone have an idea how much this would cost to repair? The following table lists some of the most common repair and maintenance-related violations. Click to expand Dec 20, 2022 · Why is my rear differential leaking A leaking rear differential is a common problem for many drivers, but it can be easily fixed with some basic knowledge. Don't Upgrade from 10 Sep 13, 2009 · Sounds like you're saying it's leaking where the pinion housing attaches to the differential housing. It only leaks when the brake button is pressed. As said looks to be a pinon seal and not the easiest diy job but normally the leak looks worse than it is. I pressured the housing to a few pounds of air and sprayed soapy water along every weld seam. Step-by-step instructions for a smooth repair job. 13 a few weeks ago, install went smoothly got g2 aluminum diff covers too got home after first night little oil spots under the diffs started noticing this more often also noticed the driver wheel well is covered with diff oil well we did the break in didnt change the diffs but 12. -Valve left open. What is the likelihood I will need to replace the differential, how concerned should I be about this? Seller states no issues during driving. Get insights into diagnosing axle issues and ensuring proper weight distribution for safety and regulatory compliance. The mileage also applies to those semi-trucks that carry heavy loads. In house reman shops take care of your differential repairs or exchange units with fast reliable service that gets you back on the road and working again. Raise the other end of the axle 6 to 10 inches with a drive hub, then wait for the oil to move from the differential to the wheel end. what is strange to me is, I have never seen it do this before, I always change rear oil every 6 months or 45,000 miles. Nov 10, 2015 · Just got my tractor back today after having both front axle seals replaced. Ensure your truck's performance with Kingfleet's professional services. If you can check fluid Jun 4, 2019 · Does your rear differential leak gear oil everywhere? Do you keep installing a new pinion seal and having the same problem? Here's the fix. For all your differential or differential parts needs. Oil that I drained off looked good, not contaminated and no water present.