Rubber differential plug
#1
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Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
Rubber differential plug
I noticed I had a rear differential leak yesterday. I got under it today and cleaned it to make sure it wasn't just the plug leaking. I'm sure this is going to seem pretty dumb, but I had no idea that they were using rubber plugs to seal the fill hole.I'm not comfortable with this arrangement. I suppose I would have to change the cover to get a screw in plug. My question is this: Is it worth the time and expense? It just seems to me that if I left it like this, I would have to keep spare rubber plugs around if I ever felt the oil level should be checked.
#2
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I noticed I had a rear differential leak yesterday. I got under it today and cleaned it to make sure it wasn't just the plug leaking. I'm sure this is going to seem pretty dumb, but I had no idea that they were using rubber plugs to seal the fill hole.I'm not comfortable with this arrangement. I suppose I would have to change the cover to get a screw in plug. My question is this: Is it worth the time and expense? It just seems to me that if I left it like this, I would have to keep spare rubber plugs around if I ever felt the oil level should be checked.
#3
Seasoned Member
Rubber plugs are fine. Mine has lasted for years with no leaks.
Don't use a screwdriver to open it up. Always just use your fingers.
Spare rubber plugs are available at any auto parts store.
Don't use a screwdriver to open it up. Always just use your fingers.
Spare rubber plugs are available at any auto parts store.
#5
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Year: 1992
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L L6 PowerTech (stock)
I've had rubber and threaded, metal plugs without issue. You would have to go to a junk yard and pull a cover, buy or make a new gasket, drain, and fill the differential. It isn't worth it unless you really hesitate to keep the rubber.
#6
Seasoned Member
That is the only place that has never leaked on my 90 . Well over 300k. Rubber ages, I'd get a new one and your good for few 100k more.
#7
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Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
I haven't removed it yet. I did just clean off the diff and will drive it a day or two to determine if it is the plug leaking. Again,a rubber plug seems to be a disposable item that once removed needs to be replaced. If they are not a problem this way I will just put another new plug in. Thanks all.
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#8
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Year: 1990
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
Just get a new one and be done with it.
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#11
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Year: 1989
Model: Comanche (MJ)
Engine: 4.0
If you're considering grabbing a cover from an older non-clip Dana35 that has a metal plug, just beware that the hole is not in the same place and you'll starve the wheel bearings for oil.
#13
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Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Don' forget to keep the old one so when you get it in your head you want to paint the diff cover you are prepared. LOL.
#15
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Year: 96
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
my experience with new rubber vs old has not always been good
imo, take it out, clean everything, if its intact, reinstall, 5min job
if it still leaks, get a new one
dont throw the old one out
imo, take it out, clean everything, if its intact, reinstall, 5min job
if it still leaks, get a new one
dont throw the old one out