Okay, I feel like this is a stupid question but I am swallowing my pride to ask for help. I have a new driver's side axle that leaks from the area around the seal. I replaced my original volvo axle due to a ripped outer cv boot and bought a new axle from O'reilly's. I usually have good success with their parts.

I also bought a new axle seal to go with the new axle. The axle went in smoothly but I think that I have not installed the axle seal correctly. Is the seal supposed to be flush with the outside casing of the transmission, or is the seal supposed to be installed closer to where the splines of the axle enter the transmission? I should have taken a picture when I started. It's too late for that now. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
George

Some are better than others, but most are milled down a shade smaller than OEM and will leak.

Ask the good folks where they get the axle from. Is it remaned OEM or Chinese?

Good for you to get the seal, but did it slide on easily or was it a tight fit? It should be flush to the side of the housing. You can look at the other side of your car for reference. Note if the leak is coming from the outside of the seal or around the axle.

Klaus
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Why are Volvos so endearing? Its just a car.

Thanks Klaus for your response.

I made a true rookie mistake. The reason that there was fluid leakage was that the axle was not seated all the way in. It is now thanks to the kindness of the transmission shop (All Transmission Specialist in Chattanooga) where I bought the seal. They took pity on me and did not even charge to do it. Guess I need to learn my limits and pass along my mistakes to others on the BB so that they won't make them.

Anyone know if there is damage to the transmission when an axle is not seated properly? The car still shifts fine but I am going to change the fluid for good measure.

Thanks,
George

It is not a 'rookie' mistake, don't feel bad. No harm done. There have been shops with 'good' mechanics that left the axle so loose that it lost contact with the drive gear and the customer left with a car that would no longer go forward or backward.

A tranny flush is fine, but not required.

Klaus
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Why are Volvos so endearing? Its just a car.

Klaus,

You are very kind. I was really beating myself up over this one. No wonder so many on the BB have sung your praises. Add me to the choir!

George