My 2000 RX 300 AWD has 206K on it. Transmission failed two weeks ago. not repairable, had used trans put in. Ran fine. Yesterday noticed oil on driveway, took back to shop, told transfer case needed connection tightened, fluid "topped off". Today, noticed additional oil on drive. Pictures follow. Can someone offer a diagnosis....please.
I truly love the vehicle but the problems are snowballing.

 

Looks like the tail shaft seal is leaking.
Should be an easy fix.
90311-38062

 

Since you paid some one to do the work, the person should diagnose and fix the problem. Now if you went against his advice and skimped on certain seals then you should compensate for rework. As a goodwill you can still pay for some of the time, but the mechanic should stand behind the work.

Salim

 

I had Aamco do it, I'm going to check with Lexus dealer for part number and cost of part. Also going to check with them on specific lubricant they recommend. If I need a new seal, at this point I think I should use their part.
Thanks for your input.

 

Should they have replaced that seal along with the CV Axle seals as standard procedure for the Trans job swap anyone know?
Back in the day we didn't replace any axle seal unless they were already leaking but I think we should have.

I ordered my CV axle seals after I saw the condition of my driver side seal(rock hard) when I replaced the axle so holding off on installing the passenger side axle till seals get here.
PS- I realize the leak is not the axles in the pic but they could be next. lol

Found this pic no sure if this is the leak tho.

 

[QUOTE=Margate330;10747321]Should they have replaced that seal along with the CV Axle seals as standard procedure for the Trans job swap anyone know?
Back in the day we didn't replace any axle seal unless they were already leaking but I think we should have.

I ordered my CV axle seals after I saw the condition of my driver side seal(rock hard) when I replaced the axle so holding off on installing the passenger side axle till seals get here.
PS- I realize the leak is not the axles in the pic but they could be next. lol

Found this pic no sure if this is the leak tho.

Thanks so much for your additional insight.
I don’t know if they replaced the axle seals or not......but you can be sure I will find out tomorrow. I went to Lexus parts department this morning and parts counter guy was very, very helpful. He printed a copy of the transfer case with all parts shown. I showed my pictures. He suggested I get a spray can of brake fluid to spray on oily parts to clean off oil. Put barrier under vehicle to capture oil drippings. Only do on a totally cooled down vehicle. Then drive a few blocks to confirm location of leak. I then took more pics and a short video showing leak. Went back to parts department, showed guy, ordered seal only. Less than $ 14.00. Will arrive in 2 days. Upon receipt I’ll have new seal installed. I think I’ll have Lexus dealer do it....I know it will cost more but it needs to be done right with the right tools.
i appreciate any input and insight shared with me here.

 

Service manual is invaluable resource and it marks every component that should be replaced .. gaskets, seals. I recall that it marked the seals to be replaced. The axle snap ring (that clicks inside the transmission) must also be replaced.

Salim

 

I have a super slow leak exactly like this, would new fluid/sealer fix it ? Or should the seal be replaced, and if so, how hard of a job is that ? Any instructions by chance? I have worked on motors but not diffs/transfer cases.

 

I am never for additives. The processes is pretty straight forward. Mark the shafts before disassembling as they should be put back in the same orientation.

You may like to soak the nuts/bolts a day ahead with penetrating oil.

Salim

 

Had same issue above when I had my RX300. In a pinch, I used a 75W140 oil from a BMW dealer in Mexico City (getting quality fluids there was an issue) that did help slow the issue until we could fix it. That was like 13 years ago and in Mexico, but as Salim stated there is no substitute for fixing the thing the right way and the additives that could be used will not help in the long run and can actually make the situation worse with this particular issue.

BTW, somebody pointed out that my cardomain links below no longer work (they got bought out by mototrend and mototrend apparently canned the whole site, will try to set up in my spare time and alternate site to host my RX300).

 

do you recall the cost to have the seal repaired ?

 

I did it with my uncle, but figuring in what I know and shop costs, should not top 200 to 300 max.

 

Warning Salim getting on the soap box:

Auto repair is much better than health care. Unlike health care, you can call the establishment and ask for upfront Labor (time and cost), parts, material, disposal fees and the shop will give you the answer (written or over the phone) the cost, if you drive in today and in the area you called. All this before you even give them your vehicle and with no obligation.

I would encourage readers to simply pick up the phone and get the exact answer they seek. They can get warranty information too.

There is no reason to be shy and not hear it from the horse's mouth.

Salim

 

I know a buddy that was a tech, he is seeing if he has his seal puller tools. If not I will have a shop do it. I am 99% sure it is the case seal right at the yoke.

 

Seal puller and seating tools are nice to have. I have been able to do without and I have had paint can opener, sheet rock screw and pliers to remove and pvc fittings to seat.

Salim