Rear axle seepage

[rnangle]

I have a 2014 Ram 1500 Bighorn. Just noticed some seepage from drivers side rear axle tube. No obvious damage, no rust that I can see. Oil level looks topped up. Dealer says the only remedy is a new rear end. I've got 105k on it and planned to get that much or more again. I've driven two previous Rams a total of about 600k. Anyone got any thoughts on alternatives?

 

[Travelin Ram]

Pictures? Is it leaking from a crack or porous weld, or is it merely an axle seal leaking?

If the axle is not low it may not even be the source. Could be a splash from elsewhere or the road. Clean it off and see if it returns.

 

[Jeepwalker]

Yeah, check axle seal first on that side. I've had to change several (not Ram, but just general vehicles). Sometimes they can leak for no reason. Cheap and easy to replace. But if you do, put in a new mopar part. OEM seals are almost always superior (Rock Auto). If the steel axle tube is cracked (hard to believe), then I suspect it could be cleaned, degreased and welded.

It's hard to imagine under what conditions lube leaking out of the end of the axle tube could require a rear-end replacement. That's highly unusual. But I guess it's possible. Might get a second opinion there...

Let us know what the ultimate solution turns out to be.

 

[GTyankee]

Who ever told you that the rear end needs replacing, did they have work shoes, jeans & a work shirt on, did they wear a patch that reads ASE ?

Most Service Advisors are a go between you & the mechanic
They are paid bonuses on things that they upsell
Most of them never even owned a Dodge product

 

[indept]

Was it this guy that told you that?

 

[rnangle]

Thanks to all. I had a non dealership mechanic look at it. Manufacturers put a label on parts and cover it with magic see through tape in order to identify things such as axles. Apparently moisture/salt got under said label and did rust a small portion of the axle sleeve creating a porous type of leak.
The oil level is good so head going to drain it, clean it, and weld it according to it's needs. Much better plan than an entire new rear end. Especially since it probably comes with a label on it.