550 panther chain case leak?

[GoodToGo]

1997 550 Panther. I think this is a vent hole, you can see it right in the center of the photo. After a ride there is quite a bit of oil that has come out of this hole, enough that I have to refill the chain case. It feels like there are threads in it, but I can't see them. Is there supposed to be something screwed into this hole? Something on the inside maybe that has come loose? Thanks.

[WingDing2]

I have a pair of 99 550 Panthers and it is different than your photo. I do not believe that is a vent hole. They say not to over fill your chaincase as they build a little pressure. Maybe I'm wrong but I think your leaking from somewhere else?

[GoodToGo]

I know the 99's are different. It is definately leaking out of this hole. I looked at a schematic, there is a vent cover on the inside, but it is not clear where it attaches or what it does. I also looked at a Clymers and it wasn't helpful. I think I am going to have to drop the chaincase cover off and look, I was hoping somebody could confirm what it is I am looking for. Maybe there is a loose part laying in th ebotton of my case. Thanks.

[GoodToGo]

After looking at the parts diagrams again, I think this might be the reverse shaft. It looks like a bolt runs through the case into the end of the shaft. If this is the case the bolt is missing and I can't believe I have been running this sled with no problems, both in forward and reverse. Can anyone with a 550 verify that there is supposed to be a bolt in this hole?

[ChuckN]

For '97 Panther 550...

Under "Drive/Reverse Dropcase Assembly" (pic here)

Part #40 and #41 Oil Vent Cover and the Self Tapping Screw. That would explain a leak out of this hole as it appears to be an oil vent? There is also part #53 and #3 that is a "plug" and "fiber washer".

It is hard to tell by the parts fiche, but it simply could be a plug #53 and it fell into the belly pan while riding?

Or to be safe I would drain the chaincase (remove drain plug Part #50) located inside the tunnel, near the driveshaft. Take the chaincase cover off and inspect the inside parts. You don't want anything to fall into the chaincase while riding...

[GoodToGo]

Turns out the bolt and washer securing the end of the reverse shaft through the cover were missing (20 and 21). A 3/4" 5/16 grade 8 bolt and washer. At $.19 the cheapest repair I've ever made. Thanks for the help.

[ChuckN]

I didn't see that part of the diagram until you mentioned it...glad you fixed it! Looks like you were lucky no damage occurred without it.