What is this leaking?

What is this leaking from the rear of my 1996 Chevy Tahoe? Thanks for the help.

ScottLady said:

What is this leaking from the rear of my 1996 Chevy Tahoe? Thanks for the help. View attachment 440685

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rear differential cover
probably best to get a new cover and a gasket, + pick up the new gear oil you will need, should take around 2.7 quart something around there, you just fill until it comes out the fill hole.
total parts cost should be more than $150 or so
easy job

Doubeleive said:

rear differential cover
probably best to get a new cover and a gasket, + pick up the new gear oil you will need, should take around 2.7 quart something around there, you just fill until it comes out the fill hole.
total parts cost should be more than $150 or so
easy job

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Thank you, is that the approximate cost of doing it myself?

ScottLady said:

Thank you, is that the approximate cost of doing it myself?

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Yes pretty much, any auto parts store should have a new aftermarket cover for around $30-35 that may or may not include a gasket. and the rest is just the gear oil.
you will want a bucket or something to catch the oil when you remove the bolts and open it, then clean it up real good before you put the new cover on. I say to get a new cover because for one rust, and for two they can get bent easily from just tightening the bolts and then leak again. so it's best to use a new cover there not expensive.
not sure on the torque specs for the bolts shouldn't take much just snug them up a little if you over tighten then it can bend it. maybe use some rtv sealant, some gaskets are rubber now so may not need it.

Welcome to the Forum from NH.

Lots of knowledgeable folks here who freely share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Knowledge is power.

I hope that you will become a participating member in the Forum's discussions.

Pics of the truck, please.

You are already receiving sage advice from the knowledgeable folks on this Forum.

It looks like it's the differential cover that is leaking. Is there any wet on the bottom of the differential? Check to see if the pinion seal is leaking. Covers get bent and damaged when people jack under the rear and don't pay attention where the jack hits.

Eman85 said:

It looks like it's the differential cover that is leaking. Is there any wet on the bottom of the differential? Check to see if the pinion seal is leaking. Covers get bent and damaged when people jack under the rear and don't pay attention where the jack hits.

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It is wet on the bottom seam, right above the stain on the floor. Is that what you are asking? I'm not talented about this type of stuff.

You might want to put some sort of sealant on both sides of the gasket when putting it on. My 99 Tahoe had the same problem…until I put the sealant on the new gasket and cover.

Joseph Garcia said:

Welcome to the Forum from NH.

Lots of knowledgeable folks here who freely share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Knowledge is power.

I hope that you will become a participating member in the Forum's discussions.

Pics of the truck, please.

You are already receiving sage advice from the knowledgeable folks on this Forum.

Click to expand...

Thank you, I want to keep her going as long as I can. I call her Bluebelle.