gear oil leak

[jmooremtb]

Hello,

I did a search for gear oil leak and didn't find anything like my problem. I am a relatively new 4runner owner and am just learning the ins and outs of these things. I did a lot of reading on this forum before buying. It was very helpful. I have a 1985 4runner 22re 5 spd. I love the truck.

There is gear oil leaking in pretty large quantities. Especially when I park facing downhill. I have not yet torn into it and can't tell exactly where it is coming from. Are there typical seals to look at for this model that I should be aware of before I start turning wrenches?

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[SV_Dude]

You need to narrow down your issue in order for us to help you. Where are you leaking? Gear oil can be a tranny, transfer case or a differential. Pics are good too!

 

[jmooremtb]

Sorry about the absence of information. I have taken some pictures I will try to get them loaded up. It looks like it is coming from somewhere around the front of the bellhousing. Because of the location of the puddle on the ground it could almost be mistaken for an oil leak except it smells like gear oil.

I just took the pictures and signed up for a photobucket account. I don't know if I got them loaded right. Let's hope.

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[jmooremtb]

I see the pictures didn't load. Anyone have any advice on how to get the images loaded? What a noob!!!!

 

[SV_Dude]

When using photobucket, click on the "IMG" link next to the picture. Paste that link in your post.

 

[jmooremtb]

 

[jmooremtb]

Got it!! Thanks!!!

 

[SV_Dude]

It looks like that's your engine that's leaking seeing as it's towards the front of the transmission. I would suspect a leaking valve cover or rear main seal. Look towards the back of the engine underneath the valve cover and see if there is any evidence of oil there.

 

[jmooremtb]

I may be leaking engine oil too. But what is going on the ground is definitely gear oil.
I am not going through much engine oil at all.

 

[crutchy]

If what is leaking out if definitely gear oil (as gear oil and motor oil smell very different) then it is most likely the front seal on the transmission. If this is the case then your clutch disk material may very well be saturated, so plan on replacing this as well.

 

[jmooremtb]

ok. Thank you for the direction. Is replacing the trans seal similar to replacing the rear main engine seal? Also, is there a recommended vendor for the part?
Thank,
Jeff

 

[SV_Dude]

ok. Thank you for the direction. Is replacing the trans seal similar to replacing the rear main engine seal? Also, is there a recommended vendor for the part?
Thank,
Jeff

I would just get a standard seal from any auto parts store. It should be pretty straight up and it you're quick with a wrench it can be done in an afternoon.

 

[crutchy]

I personally would hit up the dealer, Toyota OEM is usually the way to go. It isn't a difficult task, just getting everything out of the truck to work on. Here is a really good thread over on yotatech with a ton of pics. If you scroll most of the way down it goes over replacing the seal. Philbert's 87 4runner W56 tranny swap/build thread - Page 3 - YotaTech Forums

Just grab a buddy and some beers, she'll be back up and good to no in no time.
:cheers:

 

[jmooremtb]

Hey. Thank you very much for the directions and link. I am ready to do the job!