Rear hub oil leak. Questions.

[DS]

When I came back after a run yesterday I saw oil all around the rear tyre. Obviously coming from the axle centre 'cap'. (Sorry for any lack of correct terminology). Before I risk taking this off to replace the gasket/seal whatever, in theory does the gasket, I'm guessing is at the back of this cap, hold back anything other than just a weep of oil which might have found its way past a seal? Or is it doing a larger job of sealing the end? If there is a substantial amount of oil behind this cap am I right in thinking that a larger seal in there will have gone? If the seal has gone am I right in thinking that the content of the axle is likely to come flooding out on me if I remove the end cap? Somewhere I've got a couple of NOS seals in cosmo which I believe are labelled rear ones, so I'm guessing again that these will be for in here. Will I need any special tools outside normal workshop stuff to replace? Time wise, assuming no major problems how long would you allow for this job. This will help determine whether I tackle it before next weekends 100 mile run or leave it till after. Any help/advice for a rookie owner would be appreciated.

[ThunderStick]

No special tools needed to replace rear axle hub seals. The oil that is in there is what you have in the differential. So, nomally, and I say that with reservation, you are not going to get flooded when you pull the axle to replace the seal. Using the new seal and a good gasket sealant, you should be able to complete such a job in an hour for both sides. After you're done check your oil level in the differential and add as needed.

[brian]

dont forget to repack your bearings; couse you know the oil has contaminated them.

BB

[DS]

Thanks fellas!

[DS]

Sorted tonight. Cheers.

[ThunderStick]

Let us know how you made out.....

[DS]

Everything seems to be oiltight and ok, so thanks for the input. Much appreciated.

[ThunderStick]

OK, good to know ya made out alright.