2001 Buick Century Front Axle leak repair

2001 BUICK CENTURY
120,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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BAILEYRT
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Car has front axle taken apart to replace seal and apparently it was discovered that some kind of needle bearings were worn out and was informed that this would affect transmission operation. Is this a valid problem and if so could you give a detailed explanation. Thanks.
Nov 6, 2008 at 5:11 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:
DId they name the bearing that was bad?
Nov 12, 2008 at 7:05 PM
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BAILEYRT
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I believe they mentioned a Torrington bearing.
The car was working great, no tranny sounds, fluid leaks etc. Apparently, the bearing damage caused the axle seal to leak.
Nov 13, 2008 at 5:51 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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
Nov 13, 2008 at 9:05 PM
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