I've got a question about flushing my Differential. I have an 01 what I believe to be the 8 3/4 rear end. I've got about 93k on the clock, and can see fluid residue all around the back of the case. Is this normal?

Regardless, I want to flush it anyways. Other than a gasket and fluids, are there any other precautions I need to take when flushing the diff? I've never done it before, so advice would be appreciated.

 

Ok to answer a few of your questions and to send you to a link that explains the procedures. First you should have a corporate 9.25 inch rear diff. That was standard in 01'. Some fluid around the case is seen regularly which means the seal around the cover has been leaking or the rubber plug where you fill the diff is leaking. (Might need to get a new plug.) If you don't have a lift then I suggest you drive the front wheels up on a 2x4 to give you that ever so little bit of height to facilitate draining. This will still give you enough room to get under it. Also before you do set the parking brake and putchocks behindthe rear wheels. A little safety can go a long ways. After draining the oil check for metal and/ or clutch material if you have a limited slip or Trac-Lock diff. A small amount of clutch material is expected with the miles you have. Excessive amount is indicative of severe clutch wear. Again this is only if you have a limited slip or Track-Loc diff. An open diff won't have this but may have metal which is indicative of bearing failure. Again a small amount at this mileage is not unexpected. A larger amount or large pieces should be investigated. (This is why doing it on a lift is suggested so that you can roll the wheels slowly while examing the gears.) Now here is a link that will walk you through the draining/refill process. Good luck and let us know how you did.
http://www.pavementsucks.com/tech/diff.phpAquick follow up. Only put in what is recommended in your owners manual as for type and weight of oil. If you have a limited slip then you will need the small bottle of additive to go along with the oil.

 

Awesome. Thanks for the help. I will let you know how it goes.

 

if you arent cleaning out the axle tubes (where more gunk can reside), dont get any cleaning compounds up in the axle tubes... or you have pretty much contaminated the diff

 

yeah i just spray down my carrier and gears with brake clean. never sprayed it in the tubes. its easy bro. get ready for a yummy smell

 

Alrighty children. It took me about 2 hours to do all of it, and I am happy to say my truck is now rolling around town with synthetic gear oil. No leaks, 100% good. Thanks for the help.

 

no problem daddy