Diff pinion movement ?

[crossy999]

Hi Guys, I had some fluid leaking from the front diff pinion seal of my D2 recently so went about replacing the oil seal. With the pinion flange removed I noticed a fair amount of sideways movement in the pinion (about 5mm side to side).

Is this normal ? the reason I ask is I still have oil leaking (about 4 drips a minute) after replacing the oil seal. Either I have damaged the seal getting it in or I have excessive movement in the pinion causing the seal to fail. what are you thoughts? also, what tool/object do you use to install the seal (aside from the LR special tool)?
Thanks and Happy New Year :)

[mike 90 RR]

With 1 front & 1 rear tyre jacked up in the air .... Turn the diff flange and check for movement of the pinion

If you get all 4 wheels off the ground and placed on stands ... you will be able to drive the car "in situ" .... then you will be able to hear the diff and find out if it is noisey

Seals leak because of ,,, fitted the wrong way round // damaged flange // pinion bearing shot and it is ovalating

If the seal is OK and it leaks ... then this is a sign that it is time to find a Diff repairer .... A cheap fix now, rather than later

Happy new year also

Mike

:)