850 Final Drive Oil Leak??

[glstine]

I've got my 850 stripped down to the frame. When I removed the final drive assembly there was a little bit of oil in the are where it fastens to the swingarm

So I figure there is a leaking seal. I pull up the parts fiche and see there are two oil seals in that area. I then pull out my Clymer's manual and it states work on the final drive should be conducted by the dealer. So I pull out the factory manual and start looking at the procedure. I notice that it requires about 15 special tools. And then there is all of this pre-load stuff. I am thinking this is a job I am not going to be able to do.

So a couple of questions. Is a little bit of oil in this area a problem (I'm hoping it is maybe somewhat normal)? If it is a problem is this a job I can do myself and can I get by without all of the special tools? If not any advice on how I should proceed?

 

[Nessism]

The breather holes on the back of the final drive allow fluid to leak when the unit is laying flat. My guess is you will be fine. BTW, I have a spare final drive you can have for the cost of shipping. I've been meaning to crack it open and take a look but never got around to it.

 

[bwringer]

Given that this normally sits tilted uphill, it's more likely that it's either leftovers from when someone greased the splines or there's gear oil coming from the engine up front.

I've never seen this seal leak, and if it really is leaking, it would be far easier to bolt on another final drive -- they're easily available. Lots of us have a spare knocking around the garage for some reason.

 

[glstine]

Thanks for the replies, I feel a little less concerned now. I guess I will clean it up and keep an eye on it for any signs of leakage. I may take you up on that offer Ed, can't hurt to have a spare I suppose.