I was following my coworker to the job and he blew his rear diff. What i wanna know is obviously the fluid is shot. And most likely the spider gear. Is there anything to be done. And ive never messed with axles. Does the whole axle have to be replaced. The driveshaft too is smoking where it connects to the diff

 

Basically i really need to know the odds of his spider gear still working I can change the gasket and fluid but its on the side of the highway and i dont wanna risk that if the gearbox is fried

 

Have it towed. Generally, its cheaper to replace the entire axle, than it is to repair the busted one. If it was smoking, likely there are some bearings in there that are shot as well.

 

Likely the pinion bearing seized up. It needs to be replaced, changing fluids is not going to fix it.

 

It does still move. I dont know if that means anything. He is hell bent on trying to change the fluid and see whats going on. I guess worst case tow it after even though im almost positive its done for

 

Working on the side of the road is a good way to get dead. Spend the money. Tow it someplace where it is safer to work on it.

 

hat it towed. Preciate man 👍 as always thanks for the help. Wasnt the first and probably wont be the last time!

 

That's what I'm here for.

Stay safe. Hopefully, it isn't totally wasted.