I cleaned off the rear end yesterday to prep for paint. I come back today and it appears, even though the rear end isn't full of fluid yet, that it's seeping out somehow.

Most of these identations are closed, but a couple appear to have pinholes. (not sure if holes go through all the way - which would be a problem)

The problem would be water coming in and also fluid seeping out while I'm trying to paint it.

It also appears to be seeping out from the base of the vent tube...if it's doing that just setting there without fluid then I wonder if I'd lose a significant amount over time once I get it running.


Anybody seen this before?

 

Another one...

 

Looks like the plug weld holes where the axle tubes were welded to the center section.

 

So maybe they need tacked by a welder before I paint?

I did knock some rust flake off with a wire wheel, so maybe corrosion just got to it.

Do these vent tubes have rubber gaskets that are replaceable?

 

Did you drive the car between cleaning and finding the weeping? Have you replaced the rear cover gasket? Did you use a Fel-Pro gasket on 2 clean dry surfaces, the way you're supposed to, or did you try any other crap, or is it still original?

 

It's just been setting there as I knock off rust flake and degrease it. It isn't full of fluids. It's out of the vehicle. I'm trying to prep it for paint.

On two of those indentations where its seeping I can see a needle sized pinhole, but can't tell if it goes through to the inside. I may find a welder to spot weld (fill) those indentations and see if that fixes it.

I don't think JB weld would stick since it wants to get damp right after wiping it with brake cleaner...weird

Can the vent tube be pulled out and reinserted so it doesn't melt if they hit that spot close to it?

-Thanks

 

The tube is a plastic, press-fit affair. Whether you can remove it without damage is a tossup.

JamesC