D2 5HP19 gearbox leaks. Where to go?

[notorious]

Cheers Andrew & Adrian

[MikkiJayne]

Originally Posted by notorious

About the offside driveshaft leaking seal: Because this is right side of the car I have a theory that the bearing behind it is worn and kind of wobbles in place which kills the seal. I have no data to prove it though! Is there any 'best practice' wisdom that the bearing needs to be replaced as well? Or perhaps I am just 'thinking too much'?

Bingo I've seen a few 5HP19s like this in B5 and C5 chassis. If you can move the output flange up and down the bearing is worn out and a new seal is just a temporary fix. I've never tackled the bearing - worryingly, Etka lists it as not a replacement part so I guess it'd have to go to a gearbox specialist.

[notorious]

Cheers.

The right seal is now changed, but I never bothered to move the shaft up and down during the process. Will simply see how long the new seal will last.

Saw people discussing the front differential problems of these gearboxes in other forums.

If the right seal leaks again I will probably go for gearbox rebuild and reseal as you suggest. Will change the rear engine crankshaft seal too with the gearbox out!