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Final Drive Leak Fix

Note from Randakk: This information applies to GL1000, GL1100, GL1200 and GL1500 models. It is likely applicable to any motorcycle equipped with a drive shaft and hypoid final drive gears that run in a bath of heavy gear oil.

It's a common complaint and fact: early 'Wings are prone to nuisance seal leaks in the final drive units (especially GL1000s).

At first, this is usually just an annoyance and may keep your wheel, tire and garage floor messy. However, as the leak worsens, it can becomes a serious safety concern. I've actually seen enough final drive gear oil escape that it got onto the tire tread and rear brake pads. That's an obvious safety issue that can't be ignored!

Theoretically, these final drive units are fully rebuildable. As a practical matter, the availability of rebuild parts on these old machines is always an issue. More importantly, it takes special fixtures and expertise to disassemble, repair and rebuild these units. Setting the precise "lash" is particularly critical and tricky. The reality is that salvage units are still plentiful and relatively inexpensive. That is the repair option most folks pursue.

But recently, I've discovered an even easier and less expensive fix.

Lucas makes a product called Hub Oil that is designed to stop gear oil leaks. Designed for use in heavy trucks that see severe duty and infrequent maintenance, this product has merit for use in GoldWings and other "shafties.".

Lucas Hub Oil

 

Lucas Hub Oil is formulated with a special blend of oils and additives designed to dry up most seal leaks as well as extend seal and bearing life.

I'm happy to report that I've tried this product and it really works in stopping nuisance final drive leaks! Simply drain the old gear oil and refill with this product instead. It's a bit thicker than standard gear oil, so some people "thin" it 50/50 with regular gear oil. I use it straight out of the bottle. It is compatible with both conventional and synthetic gear oils.

It won't cure a big leak or a failed seal, but small nuisance leaks quickly diminish and often disappear completely in a few miles of use. Lucas Hub Oil is available at most auto parts stores and online. Highly recommended and worth a try.

Special thanks to customer Steve Brown of Litchfield Park, AZ who helped test this fix. Steve reports:

“I tried your Lucas Hub Oil suggestion to fix a leaky final drive. I just completed a 1500 mile trip to Sacramento and back.  It seems the leak is practically non-existent now! Thanks again for the suggestion.”

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