Thread: Water in rear diff.

I'm slowly going thru a thorough check of new to me TD5 2001. Haven't discovered any serious problems underneath, ...until today! Checking the rear diff I find 'oil' the colour of chocolate milk, ..aarh! I drained 1.9litres which indicates 200cc of water.
I had previously given the underneath a good pressure clean but was very cautious to not spray in any areas near seals. I have not as yet pressure cleaned around the wheel bearing/brake areas so not near the seals. I think it's been milky for some time. The 'oil' remains homogenous after standing for six hours. The magnetic plug had a covering of sludge but I didn't think it was excessive tho I'd prefer there to be none.
To my question: what type of damage should I look for? I haven't as yet found anything of concern (other than finding milk) I imagine bearings may now be damaged and probably a coating of rust throughout. No odd noises tho I'm fast loosing hearing.
I'm thinking let sleeping dogs lie, rather than pulling it all apart but maybe a strip down is best done now. I'm not sure what is best so what are others opinions?

S.C.

Water can get into these diffs through the pinion seal, too.

Jc