Rear end noise

[dterhaar2000]

Recently my 52 cub has been making some noise in the rear. When I go in reverse it seems to click and the left wheel seems to lock for a second. In forward it seems to be fine but I get random noise every once in a while. There is also fluid dripping out where the axle goes into tranny. Does it need a bearing or do I need to rebuild the rear end?

Thanks.

[tst]

1st check the lug bolts and center to rim bolts, make sure they are tight

[Bill V in Md]

If the issue still exists, remove the shifter cover and inspect the shifter forks to confirm they are still intact, not loose and have no cracks. I would also inspect the gears in this area.

[Urbish]

Might be worth draining the rear end and refilling with kerosene, then drive around for a few minutes before you take the trans cover off. If you have any broken gear teeth it will be easy to spot. Also look in the bottom of the trans for any debris.

If you're having a leak where the final drive input shaft goes into the transmission, you either have an overfilled transmission or a bad seal. The seal can be replaced without a substantial tear-down of the tractor.

[Dale Finch]

The fluid leak might indicate a bad seal, but COULD be due to an overfilled transmission, either with gear oil or water from rain/washing/condensation. That differential seal is NORMALLY below the tranny fluid level, and is sealing against splashed oil.

I suggest you drain the transmission (drain plug on lower right front) and refill with a known amount (3 1/2 PINTS) gear oil. There is a small square plug on the lower left side (toward the rear) of the transmission. Remove that and when fluid comes out, it is full.