DIFF OIL LEAK

[tomcarey]

Hi Guys, I have a 1998 XK8, I think I have an oil leak between the drivers rear drive shaft and
rear diff, Is there an oil seal on the diff that need replacing ??.....is this a big job ???...
any help appreciated...thanks, Tom.

[mike020150]

If these drive shaft seals leak, it's usually down to excess bearing wear on the output shaft diff bearings. if you are reasonably competent, the task (replacing the bearings and seals) can be completed on a DIY basis. Sometimes complete new output shafts with bearings etc. can be found for sale on ebay which makes the task a bit easier although more expensive. Try pushing and pulling the driveshaft in and out along its length. Ignoring any wear in UJs, the maximum endfloat at the diff end should be less than 6 thou. That test will give you a clue about the state of the bearings. Mike.

[tomcarey]

Thanks Mike for that info....ive just had it cleaned in garage....going back in a week to check it out again to be sure its leaking, Il check out e-bay, and let you know how I got on later,...if I cant find what im looking for, any ideas on where I can buy new bearings and seals.
my car is an 1998 XK8....thanks again Mike....Tom.

[mike020150]

Hi Tom,
The last time I changed a set of bearings, I found that there were at least two types which would fit physically when I took them along to a bearing factor. The difference was marked on the bearings by something like a suffix behind the standard bearing number. Presumably because they also control endfloat in the drive shaft and therefore wheel camber, Jaguar specified a relatively expensive bearing with closer tolerances which wasn't carried as stock by most factors. Consequently, I ordered a set to match the original specification (I recall they were of Japanese manufacture) and fitted them. You will probably have to buy the seals and locking collars from Jaguar unless you come across any old stock items on ebay. Mike.