I went to replace the seal on my car, and noticed a “chunk” missing out of the CV axle transmission sealing surface. It’s at about the 5 o clock position. This is rather concerning to me. It doesn’t look like damage that I did with a seal puller. I would have expected gouges and scratches if it was damage caused by my seal puller. I didn’t have to pull super hard or anything, and I didn’t hear any snapping sound when pulling out the seal.
I take it, it’s not supposed to be like this from the factory? I plan on replacing the seal, but I think this might have been a cause in the leak, there’s less sealing surface?
Thanks. Should I use RTV around the seal, for the mating surface? Some people say to. But it’s not mentioned in the service information. So I figured I wouldn’t. But maybe if it’s still leaking to give it a try.
I agree with @db4690 - it looks like it’s machined in and supposed to be there.
I also agree on not using any RTV. In fact, if that little notch serves a purpose the RTV can clog it up. But a little ATF for lube won’t hurt a thing.
Then just monitor for leaks - but that’s SOP anyway.
If I am seeing it right, that notch is for the fluid to drain back when it slashes on the seal to keep it lubricated… or to relieve pressure from behind the seal, would have to see it better…
Thank you all. I’m installing the new seal. Per the service data, the seal should be “flush” with the transmission. So when I go around this surface with a finger that also goes over the seal, I should fill no “lip” at all of one surface over the other, indicating that each are at an even height?
Any lip at all is not acceptable and may result in leaks? But I cannot just tap it in “all the way” until it “bottoms” out because then it won’t be flush as the seal will be further recessed then the other surface?
