Dana 70 pinion seal?

[The Warden]

Hello!

I think I know the answer to this already, but I'm going to ask anyways.

I noticed that the pinion seal on my Dana 70 is seeping oil...enough to leave a drop or two on the ground if the truck's sitting more than a few hours, and I can smell gear oil when walking near the back of the truck. I'm not sure how long the leak's been going, but I checked the oil level today and, while it's not filled to the brim, it's only 1/4" or so below the fill hole...so, I don't think it's an emergency situation yet.

My question is, is that something that someone who's never worked on a rear end is able to replace? Or does the lash need to be adjusted and therefore I'd be better off having a shop do it? I'm guessing it's the latter, but figured it couldn't hurt to ask...

Thanks!

 

[MIDNIGHT RIDER]

Probably 99% of pinion-seal leaks are caused by the axle-vent being all corroded-over, full of dirt-daubers, and otherwise stopped-up and not allowing the housing to vent; so, the increased pressure seeks the point of least resistance and escapes, taking a few drops of 90-WT with it.

On my 85 F-350, the rear fuel-tank leaves about two inches between it and the spot where you will find the axle-vent; mine was rusted completely off and suspended by the brake-line bracket, with the hole where it used to reside being completely rusted over.

I had replaced the pinion-seal twice, only to have it leak again within a couple days.

I drilled/tapped my access plug(the one you screw-out to put lube in) 1/8-NPT, screwed in a 90*-hose-barb, attached a length of clear hose, and connected the other end to an in-line fuel-filter to keep out trash and bugs.

Once properly vented, no more leak.