I am having a problem with oil landing on the manifold, and can smell it inside my car off and on. I told my mechanic and he said I need a new
seal at what is called the tripod joint(?) by one car repair website. One person advised that I drive it until the thing gives out then replace it altogether and save on labor costs. I have also read about damaging the transaxle so I am confused. Is the oil burning on the manifold coming out of the transaxle (or is it called a transfer case?). I have seen the crack in the boot and was given a $400 estimate to replace that boot, from the
dealerships parts store, the remaining 2/3rds of the bill is labor charges. I have also seen the whole rebuilt front axle shaft ready to install with all boots for about $100. I don't know about labor for this but it is supposed to be simpler than tearing the whole thing down and putting it back together again. I don't know which way to move on this and need expert advise please, I don't want to damage her any more. I have been procrastinating on this for months and am now noticing a "vibration" when moving and sometimes it sounds like I have a bad wheel bearing, I am getting nervous, please help.

 

Flitter, just to make sure that you get the correct information, what vehicle are we talking about here? Your name simply states 2002 X-Series, are you trying to say a 2002 X-Type? The X-Series for me atleast can mean the XK and the XJ's too. You mention the transfer case, hence why I am figuring that yo are meaning the X-Type.

Let me know. I'm sure we can find an answer for you. A picture of where you are getting the leak from may also help so we can make sure to be talking about the same thing.