71 rear axle leak
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 143
Likes: 1
From: New Fairfield CT
71 rear axle leak
1st time posting, My 71 seems to have devolped a leak on the side output shaft at the rear drive. Not bad a small 2" stain on the garage floor sometimes after a run. How much work is this and should this be left for a winter project, as long as the level in the rear is maintained? Been working on this vette for about 5 years and first time its been out and about and I really am enjoying the drive time this summer. :confused:
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 1999
Posts: 2,845
Likes: 2
From: Apex NC
Re: 71 rear axle leak (71stockray)
The side yoke seals are very easy to change, once the differential is removed from the car. That's the more difficult part. This will likely turn into a "while-you're-at-it" kind of project including replacing bushings, shocks, etc. Save if for a winter project and just keep the diff topped up until then.
When you remove the diff, you'll have to remove the side yokes to get the seals out. You should inspect the side yokes for wear and replace them if the beveled tip is worn down where it rides against the center pin. While you've got it out, it would be a good time to consider doing the trailing arms bushings, rear wheel bearings, strut rod bushings, etc.
When you remove the diff, you'll have to remove the side yokes to get the seals out. You should inspect the side yokes for wear and replace them if the beveled tip is worn down where it rides against the center pin. While you've got it out, it would be a good time to consider doing the trailing arms bushings, rear wheel bearings, strut rod bushings, etc.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 143
Likes: 1
From: New Fairfield CT
Re: 71 rear axle leak (sb69coupe)
Thanks, But I tell you what stinks about this is that all the bushings, rear leaf & coil springs, all steering components including, ball joints and tie-rods
f & r shocks all brake calibers and lines,EM brake assy, rear bearings and diff cover and just about everything I could replace underneath was done this winter. I should have replaced the seals when I was living under the vette.
f & r shocks all brake calibers and lines,EM brake assy, rear bearings and diff cover and just about everything I could replace underneath was done this winter. I should have replaced the seals when I was living under the vette.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 1999
Posts: 2,845
Likes: 2
From: Apex NC
Re: 71 rear axle leak (71stockray)
Actually, that makes your life much easier when it comes time to R&R the diff. Since everything has been out recently, all the bolts should come loose easily and you should have no problem with the repairs. Just remove the rear spring and strut rods. Disconnect the driveshaft from the front yoke, the half shafts from the side yokes, remove the front diff mount, and then drop the crossmember with the differential attached.
