differential leak

[hauser]

I have read about a possible clogged vent.  Does anyone have a picture of this vent or where exactly is it located?

1969 280sl 5 spd
Gainesville, Fl.

[A Dalton]

It is on top of the left axle tube where it meets the diff.
 It is item #5 at SLS site .. rear diff. insert.
http://sls.sparebase.de/offline.html

 You can remove it to clean, but also stick a nail in the hole where it mounts cuz I see them get plugged  there also .
 ..and if rear has leaks , it is also good to check fluid level with axle tubes level.. you want to have to stick your finger in there to be able to touch fluid level.. if it comes right up to plug, it is on the high side.

[hauser]

It started out as a small leak at first.  When I took it into the shop I had them take a look at it for me.  With the car on a lift (loaded suspension) they checked the oil level. Once they removed the plug oil strted to come out.  They let it drain out below the plug and now it leaks more than before.  Any ideas??

1969 280sl 5 spd
Gainesville, Fl.

[TheEngineer]

And it is probably a good idea to put some sealant (anerobic type MB P/N A 001 989 89 20 10) on the drain plug. The thread is not the dry seal type. I wish I had done that when I changed oil. Now it leaks a little just standing (about one drop every 5 days)

[waqas]

The vent, when disassembled, has a small foam filter/guard at the top. make sure this is not also clogged. Also make sure the top is loose (can rotate), while still attached.
http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/Waqas/20056620513_pagoda-differential-breather.jpg

Waqas in Austin, Texas

[Naj ✝︎]

quote:And it is probably a good idea to put some sealant (anerobic type MB P/N A 001 989 89 20 10) on the drain plug. The thread is not the dry seal type. I wish I had done that when I changed oil. Now it leaks a little just standing (about one drop every 5 days)

The plug has tapered thread and tightening it a 'wee' bit more might stop the dripping. New plugs do come coated with that stuff and cost pennies.

naj

65 230SL
68 280SL