The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Pinion bearing retaining screw leaking

'51 3100
After pushing my rolling chassis out and back into the garage I noticed a couple drips of oil below the rear end. It is coming from the bottom bearing retaining screw. I don't think this was leaking prior to tear down of the truck. I did previously pull the diff. cover and replaced the gear lube but have not touched the rear end otherwise. Any idea why this would start leaking? I am not familiar with the mechanics of these adjusting screws. Can I remove this screw to put on some thread sealer? It appears to be on the oil-side of the seal, so I guess I'll have to drain the diff. to do it. Since it's an adjusting screw can I just remove and reinstall it without messing up the adjustment? The manual says "Install three tapered lock screws and draw them down evenly and tightly, then tighten lock screw nuts." Can I remove one only and then reinstall to same tightness?

I've only completely rebuilt one of these rear diffs. But I recommend you loosen each nut evenly so the bearing doesn't load more to the side of the tightned nuts. Then tighten each back up evenly. Likely won't make a difference but I would follow the manual to be sure.

Dave, very cool project and a most worthy cause. Many of us lost loved ones in the wars and your project helps honor their sacrifice. Good luck.

If it's what I'm thinking just remove it, clean the screw, put some Permatex #2 on the threads, and reinstall.

If there is oil behind it put your shop vac on the axle vent while performing the procedure, keeps the oil from running out.

Grigg

Now that is a good trick. I am going to remember that one!

Works quite well. Used it on an oil drain plug saturday.