Leak Identification - Forward Drive Train

[Aichi]

2000 4Runner Limited

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8219/8386839513_b72972edba_h_d.jpg

Can somebody please explain this leak to me. It is dripping only a few drips a day but it is adding up. Is it safe to drive short distances not using 4x4? with 4x4? What would I be looking at for repair cost on this?

Appreciate any help....

a few more pics if needed at:
Flickr: carl ellement's Photostream

 

[BlackCat914]

it *appears* to be coming from the left front axle seal. As long as you check the fluid and make sure the level is good, you can drive it in 4x4 all you want. That's a very nice camera, BTW.

 

[Aichi]

it *appears* to be coming from the left front axle seal. As long as you check the fluid and make sure the level is good, you can drive it in 4x4 all you want. That's a very nice camera, BTW.

Thank you.

Okay, can you tell me how I would check the fluid level on that?

And thank you, it's a Canon T2i but it's the lens that makes this... 10-22 mm wide angle

 

[Aichi]

it *appears* to be coming from the left front axle seal. As long as you check the fluid and make sure the level is good, you can drive it in 4x4 all you want. That's a very nice camera, BTW.

Isn't this the front differential though?

 

[BlackCat914]

Isn't this the front differential though?

yes, that is the front differential. If you follow the case-half up, you will see the plug with the 6-point hex head. Remove that, and the fluid should be close, if not oozing out from the hole with the plug removed. That's how you know it's full.

 

[Aichi]

Anyone have an idea on repair cost for that seal with the labor?