Leak and noise from L front diff

[Tentoesp]

I have been hearing a noise coming from the driver's side wheel only when making right hand turns. The noise is repetitive with each rotation of the wheel. Today after work I looked and saw there was traces of diff fluid on top of the knuckle, where the u joint and axel meet.

(May be obvious, but) Would this indicate the pinion seal has failed?

What would be the cause of the noise ( a dull squeak/ whirl sound)

Thank you in advance for any suggestions.

Paul

 

[Brian2081]

Looks like you may have 2 different problems going here.
1st, yes it appears the axle seal is done, kaput.
2nd, when you turn left does the noise go away? If so then your left wheel hub is on its last leg. Replace it.

 

[Tentoesp]

Thank you.
That's kinda what I figured.
Yes, when the wheels are straight, or when making a left the noise goes away.
I'm wondering if it's worth putting time and money into, axle seals, both L and R universal joints, ball joints, hubs, and shock absorbers need to be replaced if not more. It's got 214k miles lol, my luck is I'd replace all those parts and the next day my transmission would poo the bed.