Leaky rear axle housing

So it seems I am leaking differential fluid through the rear axle housing. It seems like it's rusted through at the top of the housing and is leaking from there. I'm going to get a closer look at it this weekend but if this is the problem I have heard of people using por15. I didn't know whether to go with por15 paint, or an epoxy. Or paint then epoxy over that? I don't know what would work best. Just seeing if anyone else has had this problem or have any ideas on how I should tackle this. It's a 2001 4Runner 4wd. Thanks for the replies very much appreciated! I just bought this car and this seems to be the only problem besides an exhaust leak so really appreciate the responses hope I can get this under control without swapping out the whole rear axle assembly.

 

never had that problem but i think if you had a rust hole or spot where oil could seep through, id drain the diff, clean the area, make sure theres no metal shavings inside the housing after cleaning, then go expoxy and cover with paint. better to have a little overkill and do it once then to come back and need to redo it later imo.

 

What he said ^

Drain, pull the diff, clean the seal surface, and see if there is any rust.

 

Do what the above posters said but it is worth mentioning that the 3rd Gen 96-02 4Runner's seem to have a problem with rusty rear axle's. I know of a couple of folks who have had to swap in a new rear axle due to rust/rot.

 

Currie rock jock Dana 60 swap

 

That's stupid. A Diamond axle with Landcruiser center and outers is plenty strong enough.

 

We're both wrong. We know a Dana 35 is the best choice. Who are we kidding?