Replace those pivot seals every 10 years if garaged, 5 if not. Also check that the nuts at the body are tight. Then put some thick grease inside the pivot seal before pushing into place. It might ooze a bit and require cleanup, but the alternative is leaks and the kinds of problems that you just experienced.
While I'm ranting. You are flushing the brake and locker hydraulic systems every two years, right?
While I'm ranting. You are flushing the brake and locker hydraulic systems every two years, right?