After getting inspected by the dealership about a month ago I noticed a strong oil smell inside the my 03 1500 HEMI with 17k miles. Outside it is stronger and now I seem to be dripping what I think is gear oil from the rear diff, and its getting sprayed all over the bottom of the vehicle. Does anyone have any words of wisdom for me as I reluctantly bring it to the dealer who is likely to run me over the coals?
Thanks Mike in NH

 

You are going to have to get on the coveralls and crawl underneathand locate where the leak is coming from. First guess is that if it it a 4wd it is probably the transfer case leaking. If you have a 2500 with a manual transmission, that opens up another possibility. You should easily be able to locate the source of the leak. If it is seal related, those are easy to replace at home if you are even somewhat mechanically inclined. Last possibility is the rear diff.
Pig

 

It is probably the pinion seal, they have been going out on a lot of trucks. It will probably be blown all over the bottom of the gas tank. Try looking at where the driveshaft goes into the rear diff housing and and check for drips there. This seems to be a very common problem.

 

Yep, thats what it looks like. Do you think this kind of thing will be covered by an extended warranty?

 

Might be covered, though I'd guess if this were my local dealership they'd call it a "wear part" or something that is epxected to wear out like brake pads. If they won't cover it and want to soak you on price you may want to check with a local 4X4 shop, may have better shop rates.....

 

Are you mechanically inclined to do it yourself? It is not too difficult and you can do it with basic tools.

 

If it weren't 20 degrees outside or if I had a garage I might consider doing it myself. Thanks for the answers and I'll post the final chapter when it happens.

 

Pinon seal. Should be less that $100 to fix.

 

One hundred bucks would be great. Its in the shop now being diagnosed.

 

Let us know what it was, I still say pinon seal and stick to my price.