Hi:
Torrington is a brand, but I feel that you are refering to the axle bearing that is located in the hub assembly. I looked up the assembly for you to see. Also, there is a price with it to help you determine how you're being treated.
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/mitchell1eautorepair-car-repair-manuals
This is where the ballbearing is located. Yes, if it is bad, it could cause seal problems at the transaxle where the axle goes in. However, you said there was no problem with the trans (no sounds, vibrations...). If the axle seal was leaking, I feel you would have seen trans fluid leaking to some extent.
Good luck. If you have other questions, let me know.
Joe
Thursday, November 13th, 2008 AT 9:05 PM