Rear Pinion seal

[suntennis]

You are not the only one to have this problem. When I had my seal replaced, the mechanic (at a rear end speciality shop) measured the yoke and rear end housing and found a seal to fit these dimensions. The result was no leaks.

[bgrumka]

I've been told that the pinion seal itself over time, for a variety of reasons, can form a groove in the yoke/housing. I'm also told a stainless steel sleeve can be had from an auto parts store such as NAPA that can be pressed in thus covering the worn out grooved area. Or a new/replacement yoke could be installed.

Also could be that the unit was not put back together with the correct torque to the bolts. And if the bolts were not all that tight to begin with could be a reason why the yoke become scored in the first place, if it is indeed scored/grooved.

[TodFitch]

If the seal material is leather I think it should be soaked. If it is rubber then it should be lubricated.

What is the condition of the shaft it rides on? If that is worn or rough then no seal will last. Often a worn shaft can be fixed using a speedi-sleeve.

[CHS]

I had a leaking rear pinion seal. I ordered a new one from Bernbaum, had it installed. When I backed the car out of the garage I noticed a few drips again. Here are my questions.
Could I have received a bad seal? Did the mechanic install it wrong? According to the service manual the seal should be soaked in oil prior to installation. I was told this was no longer necessary since the new seals are made better than the old ones.
What do you think?
Thanks for taking the time to reply.
Chuck