Swivel housing leaking.

Hi all i'v just noticed that on my 2.5 N/A there is a slight leak/smear of oil on the top half of the drivers side swivel housing what would cause this to happen would it be the gasket? and also when i go full lock when turning right or nearly full lock, i notice there is a slight clicking noise would this be connected to the leak?
Thanks.
Kyle

The clicking noise is your CV joint(s) - they go on for ages like that before you really need to replace them.
Don't worry about a small leak like that - replace the swivel seals when you eventually change the CVs.

Thanks for reply, how long would a cv joint last roughly like that and also will there be a noticeable change with the worst it gets and last but least what happens if the cv fails whilst im out on the road. thanks again.
Kyle

Dunno if they're the same as a 200tdi, but this might give ye an idea of changin' yer cv's

http://www.landyzone.co.uk/lz/f41/cv-joint-renewal-68945.html

Mine were clicking on full lock for 2 years, with no further deterioration.
I changed them because I was changing the diff input bearing anyway.
I'd guess they'll get louder / click more often as they get worse.
If they go, you'll probably lose drive, but should be able to get home with diff lock on.

Be careful,

Somtimes when the "go" or break up internally the steering can lock up in various positions only releasing itself when it feels like it or after lots of heaving and sweating. So...... Yes you can get home in Difflock This is true although you Must be aware that the steering can jam up on you in the most problematic places i.e comming onto or off a roundabout. Therefore I would suggest you drive at a sensible speed so that if your steering does lock up you have time to try and get it back. I would advise you to get a replacement ready and change it when you have time as soon as reasonably possible.

If you were to cause an accident because you left the Cv there is no excuses. Also I agree the clicking noise may not get any worse in 2 years or it could be a weeks time.

It will probably finally break up if you do any half serious offroad driving on lock with some power applied. Jai