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Rear axle leak... Wondering if replacing the rear differential breather will fix the problem

Discussion in '3rd Gen 4Runners (1996-2002)' started by generic_username_12, Nov 2, 2015.

  1. Nov 2, 2015 at 5:21 PM
    #1
    generic_username_12

    #1
    generic_username_12 [OP] New Member

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    Just bought a 1999 SR5 4WD with 144K miles on it and the rear axle seals are leaking. I already knew about the issue from my pre purchase inspection but the guy I bought it from stated that it's just an issue with the rear differential breather. He gave me a brand new rear differential breather to install but I'm on the fence on how to tackle the issue.

    Do I bring it to my trusted mechanic to replace the rear axle seals? Do I just replace the rear differential breather? There's a lot of conflicting information on this topic and I can't determine the correct course of action. I'm worried that the rear shoes are already ruined too. Thanks everyone for any help.
     
    generic_username_12, Nov 2, 2015
    #1
  2. Nov 2, 2015 at 6:27 PM
    #2
    wnelax04sr5

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    wnelax04sr5 New Member

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    you could always replace the breather and see if it remedies the problem then go from there, breather is easier to replace
     
    wnelax04sr5, Nov 2, 2015
    #2
  3. Nov 3, 2015 at 3:11 PM
    #3
    UssMoGn

    #3
    UssMoGn That Vegas Dude

    Joined:
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    Extented Coil Lift. Custom bumpers
    I just had this on my 96, Replaced the Breather and inner seal. seemed to Fix the issue ,But i think just the Breather would of worked. Get the trail gear one.
    http://www.summitracing.com/parts/tgi-140207-1-kit?seid=srese1&gclid=CIqwneiv9cgCFY9bfgodjqILqw

    If you do replace the seal GET A TOYOTA one! NOT the cheap one. I had mine out and sliped on a autozone one and was almost freefloating on the shaft. Sliped on the toyota one and was a tight fit.

    Check this out for info
    https://www.4runners.com/threads/3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.630/
     
    UssMoGn, Nov 3, 2015
    #3
  4. Nov 3, 2015 at 4:15 PM
    #4
    generic_username_12

    #4
    generic_username_12 [OP] New Member

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    Thank you so much for the recommendation, I just ordered one. Should I keep the 4runner off the road until I install the new one or should I be okay in the couple of days it'll take to ship? The breather I currently have is shot... The leaking seems to be happening very slowly but I'd rather be safe than sorry and I have a backup vehicle to get to work so garaging the 4runner for a couple day is definitely a possibility.
     
    generic_username_12, Nov 3, 2015
    #4
  5. Nov 3, 2015 at 4:16 PM
    #5
    generic_username_12

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    generic_username_12 [OP] New Member

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    Thank you for the response, that will be the route I go down.
     
    generic_username_12, Nov 3, 2015
    #5
  6. Nov 3, 2015 at 6:38 PM
    #6
    generic_username_12

    #6
    generic_username_12 [OP] New Member

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    Oh man... Just checked out your 3rd gen 4runner buyer guide link... That post is the friggin bible of 3rd gen 4runners!! Thanks so much for the link, so helpful!
     
    generic_username_12, Nov 3, 2015
    #6
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