1996 Cobra Rear Axle Leak

CobraKMA · 06-14-2008, 07:34 PM

When looking at the rear axle from the rear of the car there is a zirk or valve or something on top of the axle on the right (passenger) side. It has a silver cap on it but it is loose and it leaks. I recently cleaned the undercarriage so it is obvious now but before it must have been plugged up with all the dried grease. I tried looking for this in the Haynes manual and on the internet but can't seem to find anything about it.

What is it and how can I fix it/replace it and stop the leak? Also, once fixed how do I add fluid back in?

Thanks,
Stan

RuffCat · 06-14-2008, 07:43 PM

It's a breather type valve I believe. It helps stop foaming of the diff fluid. If it's leaking you either have your fluid too full or it's time for new diff oil.They take a little under 2 bottles. 1.75 to be precise including friction modifier

CobraKMA · 06-14-2008, 08:02 PM

I think you figured it out then. Before cleaning, I drained the fluid and replaced it with new fluid and put just under4 bottles in. The manual said 3.75 Liters but I put on a new cover with a fill valve which is actually higher than the original fill valve (on the case)and allows more fluid. The original owner stripped out the original fill plug so it cannot be removed (by me anyway).

I am surprised by the color of the fluid though. It is dark black. Shouldn't it be the color of the new fluid?

Thanks for your quick response. I guess I will have to wait until it finishes leaking (I didn't get the optional drain plug).

Stan