Shaft seal into front of Differential

[hsdropout]

While working on the rear suspension of my '59 apache, I had the differential rotated and pointing downward. Gear oil began seeping out. I am hoping this is normal (a vent or such on top of the case?). I guess if it is not normal then I have a bad front seal.
Can anyone verify this?

[Knothead]

The vent should be more to the top of the carrier. You didn't say what differential was being used. How far did you rotate Differential downward?

[hsdropout]

It is the stock diff. for '59 1/2 ton. I rotated it about a quarter turn so fill plug was on top and drain plug was facing the rear.
Trying to get all the baked on crud off.
I did notice what appeared to be a small lead or sheet metal cap on the back of the right side axle. don't know what that is either...perhaps a lube point or some type of vent?

[mr48chev]

You might have to replace the seal but that isn't all that hard. There are some steps to go through to get it right when you tighten the nut up though.

Napa should have the seal if you need it. http://www.napaonline.com/Search/Det...+50014+2014099
That is what is shown for a 1956 3100 Chev truck rear axle pinion seal

[Knothead]

Guess I didn't realize you have the rearend out if the truck? Then the seeping oil would be normal. That is a vent on the axle tube.

[raycow]

If the leak was around the pinion yoke, you are due for a pinion seal replacement. This is not a difficult job, except that the pinion nut is going to need about 200 ft lbs.

Ray

[OrrieG]

Not as hard as the 260# required for early VW flywheel bolt. I still have the big nut and handle. It required a 4' cheater and trapping the flywheel so it would go turn.