Hi all,

I took the 89 240 GL (114,5xx miles) for a quickie oil change and the I noticed the drive shaft seal or bushing was leaking. Also the rear differential housing was leaking. It looks like it need to be re-sealed with a gasket/silicone. At different times, the real mechanic doing all the work said I have to replace the bushing or I'll damage the housing. And to do the differential work cause if drys up I'm in for expensive repairs. They are all minor leaks, oily surface and accumulated drip.

The boss mechanic said as long I fill them up regularly not to worry about it- plus he has a line of cars on the lot waiting for work- hmmm. What do you guys say I do.

Currently I do the easy tranny fluid change every year (10-12k). Does the differential ever have to be change and with what type of fluid?

Thanks,
Darrell and Sven the Indestructible

Darrell (and Sven): Been there, done that, got the T-shirt. Unfortunately, over time, there is no such thing as a "small leak" especially at the rear trans bushing. Eventually, over time, it will get worse. It's a given. I've replaced 3 on various 240s I've had over the years, and I can't tell you too strongly how impressed I was with the seal kit and installation tool that ipd has to offer. You buy the seals and rent (and return) the tool. I gave the whole shooting match to my mechanic, who is not easily impressed, and he went wild with the ease of the installation. Less than an hour, complete. Otherwise, the possibility of having to remove the tailshaft looms large (and expensive).Don't neglect this too long once it starts to leak appreciably, since you run the danger of chewing through the bushing and wearing the housing and the shaft. Once that's done, you'll never stop the leaking. While on the rack, the car should be checked for alignment of the drive shaft to the trans and the diff. Check the carrier bearing, the trans mounts and especially the trans crossmember...if you live in the Rust Belt, you may find, as I did, that the crossmember rotted out and started to collapse, pulling the whole trans down and out of alignment...speeding the wear process. Used crossmember, about $50. Seal kit, cheap insurance. Happy motoring!

Brad

change trans bushing and seal,i.p.d. has come up with a tool that makes it easy to change the bushing w/o removing rear housing of trans. at what point is the rear diff. leaking?

Check the condition of all U-joints and the center carrier bearing. The trans rear seal can go early due to excessive vibration.

Good Luck,

Bob

:>)