First Axle Lube Change

[LouisianaZJ]

When did you guys first change out your factory Axle Lube?
As the gears and bearings get "set/broken in" or whatever there are alot of metal shavings that get in the fluid. I was planning on changing it around 5,000 mi with some RL 75W-140 + Ford friction modifier.

Oh yeah, how hard is it to get the diff cover off on this axle? do you have to jack up the frame alot to get acess to all the bolts at the top to pop the cover off?

These are some of the replies I got on the "oil forum" http://theoildrop.server101.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=16;t=001050;p=1#000008

 

[Dark Knight GT]

I'm still on my factory lube at my car is getting ready to hit 20k miles. However, I'm not worried since I'm rebuilding the entire rear end soon. I dont think the rear end fluid needs changed but every 20-30k miles. However, it wouldnt hurt to do a first one at around 5k miles.

As for jacking the car up, I know you need to be on a flat level surface and put the rear end at least on jack stands for you're probably going to be under there a little while. As for taking the rear cover off, I've never done it before, however, it doesnt look that complicated either.

 

[LouisianaZJ]

yeah, I peeked under there today for a better look. Should not be too hard, except it looks like I might have to disconnect the rear sway bar to get the cover completely off.

Unlike on the jeep when it was stock, the gas tank was so close to the axle I had to jack up thefram literally 2' to get acess to the top bolts on the diff cover