RE: '06 R/T Magnum w/ AWD.

My mechanic took at look at the "leaking RR half-shaft" seal and was disturbed by the "orange-colored sealant" on the differential cover; said it indicated that the cover had been removed at some point.

The dealer (service manager + mechanic) didn't say anything about the sealant/cover when assessing the axle seal leak.

Purchased the car brand new, 21.5 k miles, never had the rear end touched.

My take is this: as the differential was being assembled, the factory ran out of the usual(?) gray sealant, and used the orange variety as a substitute.

Looking at the differential case, yes the lube has wetted a good portion of the case, but I don't see any indication that the leak is coming from the cover, as opposed to the axle seal.

Anyone had the seals start to leak (everyone tells me that extended periods of inactivity are when the seals can begin to leak, when they are not being "wiped"). The car sat for nine months last year.

Anyone have any comment on this?

Anyone seen orange sealant on their differential cover?

Thank you.

Jack

 

Update:

The service manager says that yes, orange sealant may be OEM (does not indicate that differential has been opened).

Also says that a very slow leak might go on for "five-six years" without suddenly increasing and risking damage.

Jack

 

So, here's an update. Just got a call from my mechanic, turns out a squirrel had gotten under my hood and chewed up some wires.

I know they're telling the truth because that morning, I had to opened my hood to check my oil and a squirrel was in there, scared the living crap out of me.