Front Diff/Transfer Box Oil Leak - Splined Sleeve Removal?
 

2008 Manual D5

I appear to have a leak where the transfer box/diff bolts to the gearbox. Definitely dirty redish fluid.

So I suspect it's coming from the seal that end which is something I can do. Is this a common place for leaks?

When I have been looking at pictures of secondhand units, some have the splined sleeve attached and others don't. Is it pot luck as to whether this sleeve stays on the gearbox or comes off with the diff?

I have known them to leak here, normally or in my experience the splined collar stays in the box. I have known them to seize in. Be worth having a new collar on standby if you have to get a little rough with it to get it out or if there’s play in it when you get it out but on that model year it should have the upgraded one anyhow.

That's not a bad idea actually, thanks.

How easy is it to remove the seal? In my simple head, I intend to put a small self tapper into the existing seal and pull out with long nosed pliers? Whilst it's out, I may as well do all the seals. Presume the only other issue with that is removing the prop shaft coupling? Is the puller method, or long bolt method preferred?