What to do? Cracked 12 bolt.
 

Hey guys,

I'm a newbie and learning a lot. I bought a 69 camaro a couple of months ago. One of the first issues I had was a leaky passenger side axle tube. I was told it was cracked and I had it welded at that time. It is currently leaking again and is at the shop (that fixed it before) to determine the problem. That said, if he says the diff is damaged beyond repair (is that possible) what should I do - Look for a used 12 bolt? Look at a new rear unit from an aftermarket company? Get a second opinion?

I'd prefer not to break the bank but I HATE spending a little bit of cash for several "fixes" to put a bandaid on the problem only to spend a bunch of money chasing the problem.

On a second and semi related note - I'm looking to switch the rear gears out anyway so how would that factor in my decision above?

TIA,
Matt

did you get any pictures? If its the tube it can be cut out and replaced. If its the actual iron housing it would depend.

vince

Hey Matt, not knowing exactly the problem.

BUT from my experience taking the cheaper route short term never pays off as you will always spend more money in the long run.

If the amount of money to repair this rear is substantial for a bit more you may just be able to go new.

Frank just gave me a killer deal on a brand new Moser 12-bolt, maybe talk to him after you get the quote to repair.

No pix but he said that he couldn't see anything that would cause the leak unless it was under the metal brackets. That would be a bigger repair that what he had time for today. I'm taking it to McMillan's SPeed and Fab next week to have him look at the car. We'll see.

Rybar, I'm with you on this. If I can't get it fixed on the cheap, I'll find a way to replace it. I could care less if this is the original part. I didn't buy this car to fret about matching numbers. Thanks for the info...

Matt