Water in transmission or differentials

[BigHeavyVehicle]

Drove through some recent floods in central NSW, and was wondering if there is a danger of water getting into the diffs or transmission. Water depth was about 60cm - well above the axles.

[SirNed]

The transmission itself would be pretty safe. Not real sure about the Klugers diffs but usually the only time it was a problem was if the diff was very hot and when you went through water the temp change caused it to suck in water past the seals. Generally though you should be fine. Easy way to check is remove the filler plug and stick your finger in the oil. (make sure diff oil is not hot) If frothy looking then you have water in there.

Fixed up some typos

Edited January 8, 2011 by SirNed

[basejump]

Drove through some recent floods in central NSW, and was wondering if there is a danger of water getting into the diffs or transmission. Water depth was about 60cm - well above the axles.

nice photo - go the mighty kluger!

[BigHeavyVehicle]

Update: the car had its 40,000km service late last week which included changing the transfer case and rear differential oil, and checking the transmission and front differential oils. Presuming the dealer did all of this, there was no indication of water entry.

[BigHeavyVehicle]

...By the way, two of us walked this flooded creek twice before deciding to drive through. ALWAYS walk through to determine depth, rate of flow, and road surface conditions!