3 replies to this topic

[MiniAustin]

Hi All,

I am currently learning to drive (test booked, so wish me luck!) and have purchased a 1985 Austin Mini with an MG Metro 1275 engine.

The driveshafts were leaking oil quite bad and I therefore decided to replace the seals...

I've come to realise by now that if there's anything wrong with my car - let it be, or open up a can of worms!

Anyway, I split the top ball joint earlier and managed to remove the driveshat from the pot joint, I have also removed the pot itslef, revealing the culprit seal...

Supprisingly easy i thought...until i tried to remove the old seal which seems to have bonded itself to the diff side cover...doh!

After a few hours of picking and levering, I am now left with half a worn seal that seems almost impossible to remove(see pics attached)...

Does the old seal have a metal backing, which I need to pry off?

Any ideas?

Much Appreciated

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[Guess-Works.com]

The metal bit you've exposed is part of the seal ( it's the core of the seal giving it its shape )

By now I assume you have drained the oil, therefore I would remove the cover completely which will give you much better access to remove, and replace, the seal and also a chance to check the bush in the cover. More often than not diff seal failure is due to the bush wearing and allowing the pot to move up and down.

[MiniAustin]

Great, cheers for that. Was hoping not to remove the side cover as it seems like a tricky job

[Willthewelder]

Use a small say 2mm drill bit and wind a self tapper in each side will get it out.