alright im a n00b when it comes to drivetrain stuff but i was under my car recently and i took a look at the differential and i saw all this oil type substance on my differential, is it usually lubed or is that just fluid? :blah:

 

I'm not exactly sure where you are taking about. Pictures would clear this up.

But I guessing your are referring to a pinion seal leak.

Mine did that also, it is a fairly easy fix.

 

Does it look old and have a bunch of grit in it? A lot of differentials have that, mine has it all over the back end. Nothing too serious to worry about, but checking for other leaks is a good idea.

 

I got to do that job now. Is there a bearing behind that seal??? I took out the drive shaft today, and also replaced the rear axle seals and bearings. But as I turn the pinion there is a spot where it is not smooth, and makes a noise when it turns past that point. That's the reason I changed the bearings and stuff....it started making that noise...really loud, and sounded just like a bearing going out. I replaced all that and it didn't take care of my problem....the U joints feel fine, but that pinion seal is leaking anyway, so I'm gonna change that and if there is a bearing behind it then I'll change that too. Thanks.

Shawn