I recently noticed an oil leak coming from the right side of my axle. I had replaced the bearing and seal on that side about a year ago, so I was somewhat familiar with the process. I took the right axle out , replaced the seal, re-filed the diff and now I get a 'sawing' noise from that side, especially when I make a left turn. When I was putting it back together, I wasn't really sure how to know if the axle is seated all the way in. I put a block of wood over the outside of the hub and gave it a few whacks with the hammer. Do you think this damaged the bearing? It didn't just wear out suddenly. After looking at it some more I figured that the cover plate (the thing with the 3 bolts) is what holds the bearing and the axle in place and that when you tighten it down, it seats the bearing. I'm guessing I need to replace the bearing again, although not the seal. Have I correctly answered my own question, or does anyone have any advise or suggestions?

Thanks

 

There may have been some rust where the original seal / bearing sat. If this wasn't cleaned when replaced it might have damaged your new seal.

I also put a bit of real heavy oil between the bearing and seal to keep the seal from running dry.

Take the axle out and have a quick look and feel is the the best bet IMO.