Defender 90 Tdi 300 - Deep Water Wading Problems

[Defenderman]

Some questions for the pros out there...

I recently returned from a fantastic trail in the Western Cape - Bergkraal 4x4. Unfortunately I became stuck in a water crossing and have the following questions.

The oil in the rear diff is milky in places, but there is no sign of water that has separated from the oil, and I am almost certain that no water went into the breather pipe. The reason I say this is that I have recently had a rear diff lock fitted and was wondering whether factory grease could cause the oil to go milky? What is the best method for flushing out milky oil in the rear diff?

Opinions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Maml]

2. The oil in the rear diff is milky in places, but there is no sign of water that has separated from the oil, and I am almost certain that no water went into the breather pipe. The reason I say this is that I have recently had a rear diff lock fitted and was wondering whether factory grease could cause the oil to go milky?

Not sure about grease making the oil milky, but water definately will. Check where your breather is, and possibly extend it for future assurance. Heard from a local 'diff-repair specialist' that when diffs are hot they can suck in water from 'other' places/seals etc...stand to correction on this, but believable as I had the same problem.

3. What is the best method for flushing out milky oil in the rear diff?

Drain the diff. Refill with whatever oil you're using (normally EP90). Then check again once you've driven...if still a bit milky, then repeat the process - until the oil is normal colour.

M2CW, hope that helps.

[piers]

Not sure about grease making the oil milky, but water definately will. Check where your breather is, and possibly extend it for future assurance. Heard from a local 'diff-repair specialist' that when diffs are hot they can suck in water from 'other' places/seals etc...stand to correction on this, but believable as I had the same problem. .

Agreed. I had the same issue a few months back. Apparently the diff is not water tight when flexing.

Drain the diff. Refill with whatever oil you're using (normally EP90). Then check again once you've driven...if still a bit milky, then repeat the process - until the oil is normal colour.

M2CW, hope that helps.

Once again I agree. Depending on how much water the diff ingested, you may have to repeat the drail/fill 2 or 3 times.

[Defenderman]

Excellent, thanks for the info guys. I will action immediately.