new seal... still leaking

[mercle]

Hi. I previously posted my problem with diff oil getting into brake drum. ( http://forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/showthread.php?t=33675 ) Unfortunately I am still experiencing problems. I have a 1983 L608D. Oil was getting into the nearside drum, the seal was replaced but oil was still present. Thinking it maybe leftover oil from the oil catcher seaping out, the catcher was cleaned and just in case the seal was replaced again, the drum was very carefully repositioned so as not to damage the seal. There are no signs of any scoring or grooves or damage to the shaft. The vehicle failed it's MOT again and when the drum was removed it showed that oil had again gotten through. (though possibly a little less). The bearings look fine and are well greased. Asking all my mechanical friends and the only suggestion is that the diff oil is getting too hot and forcing itself past the seal. If the problem is oil getting too hot why is this? Friction? There is no noticable whiring noise etc when driving. (the breather hole is not blocked). Is there any special extreme temp diff oil that anyone can reccomend that might help? or any other ideas? Many thanks.

 

[wireman]

Are you sure that it aint being over filled?
Does the seal run in the correct place on the shaft, i.e. its not in the wrong place axialy?
Is the correct seal being fitted? i.e. does its ID fit the shaft correctly?
Is the seal the right way round?

 

[mercle]

trying again

Apols for absence... Thanks Wireman

The seal is the right way round. It's the right seal. It runs in the correct place. I've got some Merc diagrams from a German manual and shows a space ring which isn't there that sits between the seal and the bearing. The same on the other side. Mechanic neighbour has looked and says missing space ring should'nt cause problem as seal sitting in right place ok, but I am going to get one from Mercs and fit it along with another new seal, a good clean up and some fresh diff oil and grease and try again.