Posted by Keith in Washington on February 07, 2000 at 17:41:58:
In Reply to: 4WD Steering Knuckle Leaking Oil posted by Ray Fried on February 07, 2000 at 16:49:15:
When you see a leak from the front steering knuckle area as you describe, it usually means that differential filuid is getting past the seal that is located in the axle housing. This seal usually start leaking because the bushing is excessively worn. What is now happening is the differential fluid is now mixing with the grease in the steering knuckle and it now can flow past the felt seal. The only way to fix this is to replace both of the busings and the seal. To do this you will need to remove the steering knuckle and the axles. One busing is located in the axle housing just inside of the axle housing end. The seal sit just behind this bushing. Everytime I have replaced this bushing it has either fallen out or is easily removed with a finger. It is best to use a puller for both the bushing and seal. The second bushing is located in the spindle on the side that faces the steering knuckle. Be sure to replace both bushings and the seal. Also do both sides of the axle at the same time. The busings are available from Vintage Power Wagons as is the seal. They are reasonably priced. While you are in there replace all the grease in the steering knuckle and repack your wheel bearings. While you are at it, I would replace the differential fluid and the pinion seal if it is leaking. You might as well do it all when your under there.