I just started to notice a small oil leak to the front left diff axle - the arear where the diff meets the wheel and break area (sorry not mehanically lingo 'd).
It looks like some gasket issue. My question is what is it and approx how much will it hurt my hip pocket..??
can you post a pic? your description seems a bit vague? is it just under where the 9 bolts go in? if it is the gasket is pretty cheap and not usually a place where they leak from. maybe check to see if those bolts are all tightened to to the correct torque and thread lock applied. From memory it was a AF size possibly 11/16 nut. get some pics up mate
To answer your question, I agree it is most likely the swivel seal.
To replace it requires that the end of the axle is removed at the bolts inboard from the seal at the least and it is a heavy dirty job.
Probably at least 2 hours and so about $200-300.
Just be aware that like everything with cars that may not be the complete answer, as a major cause of leaking swivels is that the bearings that the steering pivots on"the pivot bearings" may be worn and this is what is causing the seal to fail and a new one will only last a few months. This is significant extra work so probably an extra $200.
Regards Philip A
This is the Kit you need. a lot of guys on here only use Corteco brand seals, also comes with the new style of grease that is thicker and harder to leak that your regular stuff.
I wouldnt do the job with out a torque wrench, and if you wanna make you life alot easier a 9/16 and 11/16 racheting ring spanner (probably a shorter/stubby one as they come in handy in the engine bay.
I just done my left side swivel seal & found the axle oil seal was shagged (goes in the flange where the ball bolts to the axle housing), so suggest you replace that while you have it apart. Rob.
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