Outer Limits 4x4 Board

When I changed the rear diff oil yesterday I noticed there was a clump of tiny metal filings on the magnetic drain plug. The oil was still clean, no water or anything. I also noticed a small oil leak coming from the pinion.

Obviously the pinion seal needs replacing but can anyone shed some light on what could be causing the metal filing from inside the diff? I need to know what needs to be done and how many $$$ I'm looking at.

A certain amount of fillings is normal.

How much we talking physical size wise? When was last time the oil was done, so how much time has it had to build up?

As long as they are fillings, not chunks you are probably fine.

oil was last changed no more than 10 000km's ago. The clump of filings was about 4mm thick ontop of the magnetic drain plug, but the filings themselves were tiny no large chunks

Yep.. thats called 'normal wear and tear'.

ok thanks for that