Diff leaking fluid... what has failed?

[sapote]

Just the handbrake is enough I assume?

Sure, just pull it tight.

[SQ13]

Errr do I need to drain the diff fluid if I’m just replacing the input shaft seal? I’m hoping that area is high enough that I don’t have to bc I just changed the fluid like 400 miles ago. 😅

[bigjae46]

Errr do I need to drain the diff fluid if I’m just replacing the input shaft seal? I’m hoping that area is high enough that I don’t have to bc I just changed the fluid like 400 miles ago. 😅

No. The pinion bearing is submerged in oil. If it is then you're diff would be overheating very badly.

The pinion bearings get lubrication from the ring gear pulling gear oil over the top of the diff carrier onto the pinion bearings.