Leaky rear end on 54
My 54 developed a leak over the winter, dripping oil from the front of the pumpkin by the universal joint. I assume that I need a new pinion seal. Grossmuellers has them for $46 which seems a bit much. Anyone know a cross reference to a seal from NAPA? Also, trying to check the fluid level has me somewhat confused. On the bottom as well as the top of the pumpkin there is a 1/2 head bolt with a 3/4 in nut seated against the case. To put gear oil in do I simply take out the 1/2 inch bolt? Is the 3/4 nut some sort of lock? The nut loosens easily but the 1/2 bolt seems to be reluctant to turn. Any thoughts?
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Re: Leaky rear end on 54
Willard, It maybe a possibility that it could be leaking down the splined shaft of the pinion. if so I would apply some sealer to the splines before re-assembly and replaced the seal while your there.New England chapter member, 63 Convert. 327/340- Chapter/Regional/national Top Flight, 72 coupe- chapter and regional Top Flight. -
Re: Leaky rear end on 54
I have an extra pinion seal
a very trusted source says a Citation transaxle seal works......
I have never confirmed that - but he gave me a pinion seal1954 Corvette #3803 - Top Flight 2012, Bloomington Gold 2012,
Triple Diamond Award 2012, Gold Concourse Award 2012, Regional and National Top Flight 2014
1954 Corvette #3666 - "The Blue Devil" - Pennant Blue - restoration started
1957 Corvette - FI 3 sp - Black and SilverComment
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Re: Leaky rear end on 54
sounds like it is not the orig rear end
53 54 rear ends have one large hex plug in the rear diff cover
add fluid there
(I repro those plugs FYI)
cover looks like this - incorrect plug1954 Corvette #3803 - Top Flight 2012, Bloomington Gold 2012,
Triple Diamond Award 2012, Gold Concourse Award 2012, Regional and National Top Flight 2014
1954 Corvette #3666 - "The Blue Devil" - Pennant Blue - restoration started
1957 Corvette - FI 3 sp - Black and SilverComment
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Re: Leaky rear end on 54
I agree that it probably is not original rear. I have had several 62's and the large hex nut is not present on this 54. It looks like there is one plug on top to fill and another lower down to drain. My plan is to add fluid and drive the thing before tearing into it. Maybe it will be like many of my old Powerglides and seal up fine with a little use. I had this PG rebuilt last year and doesn't leak a drop-a first for me with Powerglides. BillComment
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Re: Leaky rear end on 54
OK, maybe I should get my eyes/glasses checked. Looking closely I do indeed find the large hex plug in the rear. My plan is to add some 90 weight gear oil and see if the leak stops with a few miles driven. I still am looking for a # for the pinion seal for Rawhide, National or some other supplier.Comment
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