The E-Type (XK-E) Forum

It appeared that my differential pinion seal was leaking, so I yanked it out and inspected the seal and the flange mating surface. Both appeared to be in quite good shape. There was no rust, wear or grooving in the pinion and the old seal looked like it might have been recently replaced.

I carefully cleaned it all, installed a new seal, and now it still leaks. BTW, I also replaced the vent tube and confirmed that the oil level is correct.

I have verified that the pinion is the location of the leak as everything else is dry. I'm considering a new pinion flange, but they are costly, so before I go that route, I'm wondering if this is a common occurrence and if anyone has any special experience with this issue.

Jerry, did you check if there is any play in tge the ingoing axle?
Regards, Frank

That's weird. It might be leaking through the splines of course. Did you tighten the pinion nut back to the same place where it was (to maintain the pre-load)?
I don't like disturbing these things, but if you wanted to, you could smear the splines with instant gasket.

Yes, pre-load was properly maintained.

This time I'm going with a Speedi-Sleeve, sealer on the splines and around the outside of the seal itself.