Oil leak in rear axle

[Vin Rouge]

The rear axle on my 1995 90 300tdi leaks oil. The oil seal has been replaced time and again but after a couple of months the leak comes back ruining yet another set of brake pads.

Has anyone else experienced this problem or can offer advice on what the cause might be?

In advance, thanks

[Phil B]

Check the breather on the diff.
If it is blocked the air and oil inside the diff will be pressurised when the diff gets hot causing expansion and leaking past the seals.

[Blknight.aus]

agrees with the breather thing but when you redo the seal look at that seal running fce, you my need to speedy sleeve it or solder fill and polish it.

[landy]

Check the stub axle for wear. Rather than go to the hassle of sleeving replace it. They aren't that expensive.
Are you adjusting the wheel bearing correctly? I'm sure you would know if they are adjusted incorrectly but worth checking to be sure. Also check the inside of the hub where the seal sits into. You may have a groove, or out of round surface that's allowing oil past the outer edge rather than the sealing lip.
Other than that, agree check breathers.

[gromit]

Breather.
The fitting on the axle is zinc passivated steel and eventually rusts internally & blocks.
Replace with a plated brass swivel elbow (1/8" BSP to 6mm tube).
Had to do this on my '95 110 a few years ago.

colin

[Vin Rouge]

Thanks guys. The breather is clear and in good condition so I'll check out the stub axle and sealing faces. Need to get it sorted before we set out for the Cape in a few weeks.