Differential

Shawver · #1 10-18-2005, 02:38 PM

Hello out there! I have a 1996 Tacoma 4x2 and my diff is leaking. I can't tell (it has been raining for days), if it is leaking at the cover gasket, or the pinion seal, so I have purchased both parts. In case I need to replace the seal, can anyone tell me the size of the flange nut? I am pretty sure I don't have the socket the on hand, so I will purchase one when I pick up the parts. Also, will the driveshaft have to be removed to replace these parts? I would appreciate the help!!! THANKS

brayboy · #2 10-19-2005, 01:06 AM

Hi, you really need a set of SAE & metric wrenchs and sockets. First, you're gonna need to pull the diff fill plug. This is just to be sure you can refill the diff after you drain it. Next come the diff drain plug to drain the diff oil before you do either of these jobs. I'd suggest going to Harbor Freight(or -the-like) and purchasing a metal ruler that has SAE mesurements on one side and metric on the other. This way, you can get the closest measurements for the sizes you need. The rear diff cover gasket will be much easier than replacing the drive shaft seal. Can you put masking tape around the cover gasket? It absorbs oils and will let you know if the cover is leaking or not. I realize it's not a good time because of where you live, but the rain is going to be snow soon. As for the drive shaft seal, you may need a special service tool or a type of puller. But I'm sure that the diff sleeve can be removed with regular prying tools like screwdrivers and hammers with some patience. I've never done a seal replacement before so maybe someone else that has will chime in soon. Bray [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/40BEER.gif[/img]

haireball · #3 10-19-2005, 10:23 AM

there is only the front seal on the diff on my 02, from what i see on http://fsm.afraid.org/ there is no rear seal, if so you have to pull the axles before you can remove the diff from the housing. not really hard, just get all new seals (axle too) while you are in there. This may have changed since 1996, maybe you do have a rear diff cover, but that is one thing that surpised me about my tacoma is the only way in is thru the front, which is one less thing to leak, at least they put a drain in or that would be a hell-ashious job to change the fluid...lol

Shawver · #4 10-19-2005, 11:36 AM

lol I don't know what i have going on with that poll vote thing!! you can tell i didn't know what i was doing. thanks for the reply and your time...

sab

Shawver · #5 10-19-2005, 11:43 AM

oh wow....thanks for the link hb!!