Front Axle Snaps from Diff

FreezyTitan · 01-24-2007, 10:04 PM

Recently I have notice an oil stain in my driveway in the snow, so I began checking the oil daily to see if it was from the engine, but the level stayed the same. I assume that maybe during my last oil change some oil was left somewhere when it was drained and it just dripped onto the driveway and because of the snow it looked fresh.

Anyways, I have also notice that my truck slightly pulls to one side in 4-wheel drive. But, not harsh enough to light any bulbs, just made me think a tire with low pressure. So, I have been driving around for a couple of months or more with this issue, none the wiser.

So, I finally pull my truck into the garage, my wife normally parks there, to install some audio equipment, rearview camera, etc. When I pull out I notice and oil leak in the garage. After that I made and appointment this Monday past at the dealership, took the Titan down there and come to find out the right axle was ripped away from the diff this whole time. I have an 04 that I bought for $20K w/17,000 miles on it, I bought and extended warranty, but it is still under factory warranty as well.

Let me just say it is good that is, because the part alone was about $1300. But, what makes me think is the fact the service manager tells me they have redesign diffs, etc that they will install. Thats great, but my question is if Nissan knew the possibility of a failure, why not recall. But, of course we all know that answer is money.

I just hope any of you serious 2004, 4x4 w/Off-Road and Tow package guys doesn't have it happen to you on a trip deep into whatever.

docopharm · 01-24-2007, 10:43 PM

Typically this is due to a failed C-clip....about a .99cent part. Happens when droop angle is severe.

btw, if anyone else has this happen and are out of warranty....you can just replace the c-clip, push the axle back into the diff, refill your fluid and be on your way.

FreezyTitan · 01-25-2007, 06:36 PM

Not sure if we are talking about the samething, because the service rep told me that it was held in place with 6 bolts, which most snapped off... Not sure though, I didn't get a chance to take a look at the damage, wish I had though...

Wallrat · 01-26-2007, 07:23 AM

FYI, the 6 bolts that hold the front CV's to the stub shafts won't cause an oil leak, even if they're all broken/removed. What happens is the stub shaft actually pulls out of the diff.

My stub shaft has come out of the front diff several times. Most recently a few days ago while I was on a trip down in Baja. This time however, I managed to twist the stub shaft so I couldn't just slide it back in like normal. So a days drive from the border I ended up having to pull out the front diff and ultimately hammer the stub shaft back into place. I'm sure I voided the hell out of the warranty! Gonna take it to the dealership today.

FreezyTitan · 01-26-2007, 11:38 PM

Great, sounds like what I had happen. Well, it had to be some sort of gear oil. Because it was in the driveway, I am not sure what else may have happen as a result, but at the dealership they had to drop the whole front end and replace the axle or whatever. I really need to read my paperwork to see what all was really done.

Wallrat · 01-27-2007, 05:26 AM

When you figure out what they did, be sure to post it in my other thread:

SURVEY: Front Differential Problems

docopharm · 01-27-2007, 07:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FreezyTitan

Not sure if we are talking about the samething, because the service rep told me that it was held in place with 6 bolts, which most snapped off... Not sure though, I didn't get a chance to take a look at the damage, wish I had though...

If they are saying they had to replace the whole front diff, then no, we aren't on the same page. I would imagine though that it was a failed c-clip to begin with and they just didn't know what they were talking about. Like Wallrat said, the 6-bolt thing doesn't sound like your problem with the leaking fluid. Anywhoo, sucks either way. I had it happen to me when I was installing my PRG lift (as have quite a few people). Scared the crap out of me when the shaft pulled out, fluid was pouring on the ground, and I was desperately trying to find something to prop the damn thing up with so I could come inside and find out what the hell I just did! lol

FreezyTitan · 01-27-2007, 09:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wallrat

When you figure out what they did, be sure to post it in my other thread:

SURVEY: Front Differential Problems

Will do...

rwhite · 01-28-2007, 07:56 AM

It is just a band-aid if they only replace the c-clip. I had my axles pop out. The first time the dealer said the c-clips were still on there, but they went ahead and replaced the clips and put new seals in. It happened again 2 weeks later, the dealer called Nissan and they are aware of the problem and said that the front differential must be replaced. They said it is redesigned. If anyone knows what they did to redesign it, it would be nice to know.

FuzzyLogic · 01-28-2007, 08:42 AM

When did they start installing the redesigned front diff at the factory?

FreezyTitan · 01-28-2007, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FuzzyLogic

When did they start installing the redesigned front diff at the factory?

Good question, because the service rep told me he was replacing mine with a redesigned part. My question was, why not recall and do it for all, but again comes economics, not cost effective.

I have to look into that one. Anyone know?