MGB Tube axle wear

[Puddleglum]

Went to look at an MGB parts car today. I have a question about the rear axle. there are signs of oil leakage from all the holes around where the tubes press into the center housing. Is this a reason for concern or not? Also, how much rotational play is normal at the input shaft? It feels like 10-15 degrees but it's about the same as the fellows daily driver.

 

[bobhustead]

Don't overpay for the 6 parts that are still serviceable. Your specific concerns are not worrying. Rear ends wear at the pinion bearings (upper and lower), ring and pinion contact, axle and spider gears contact points with carrier, axle/spider gear contact points, axle gear to carrier contact points, spacer washers under the axle and spider gears, splines on axles and in axle gears, & carrier bearings. Doesn't take much small wear on each component to add up to noticeable slack action in the system. Apparent oil leaks will go away when you throw away the diff cover and install a new one with gasket.
Bob

 

[Puddleglum]

Thank you. All the parts I want will still need repair so I know I won't be getting a lot, but it's parts I don't have right now and I can get it pretty cheap. I've just never seen an axle weep from those holes before.

 

[bobhustead]

I think the weep is from the cover and has gotten into the holes from the outside.
Bob