My truck (2001 Dakota 4x4) is leaking fluid out the rear diff, at the point the drive shaft goes in. It's certainly concerning, as it's bad enough it is wet underneath, and fluid is obvious flowing back along the full length of the differential. However, it is not dripping, no fluid on the pavement even after a full day of being parked.
There are no new weird noises or sounds - there's been a brushing noise for a while from somewhere, that I can only hear with the passenger side window down, and something like a curb to bounce the sound off of. That's been pretty steady and I'm nearly certain it predates any possible leak. The question is - If I drive it like this for a couple more days, am I courting the whole thing seizing?
I can post pictures if that'll help. I'll at least have to drive it about 20 miles tomorrow, still have to go to work and back, planning on stopping at my mechanic on the way home; had to work late, they were closed when I tried that today.
FWIW, the truck was inspected on the 30th and nobody mentioned this to me. I've no idea how much fluid is supposed to be in that end of the diff... the back seal is fine.
Appreciate any advice, and hope everyone's fine, been very quiet around here lately.
jmc