Axle fluid replacement

[Jrousey]

I have been searching for quite a while with few results but nothing particular to what I need.
I'm sure this has been covered so many times, many of you are tired of seeing this question and answering it. So here goes.

I decided to view the forum too late and have already removed the cover on the rear axle and replaced it. So now, fill plug not coming out. Great. I see many of you advising to remove the plug first to verify it comes out.

I have a 1994 4.0 4x4 with the 8.8". At least the tag says 8.8". I read I can fill the rear diff. Via the abs sensor bolt? Is this correct? Anyone have any helpful pictures? As for the front, what tool did you use to remove that plug? Have yet to drain it.

Any help would be appreciated. Again, if I'm beating a dead horse, my apologies.

Jim

 

[4x4junkie]

You can fill the axle thru the sensor hole, though this doesn't give you an opportunity to know the level is exactly correct other than to simply put in whatever amount is specified for the axle (normally this shouldn't be an issue if it has the original factory cover on it).

Is the fill plug stripped? Or you just can't get enough effort on it? If the latter, maybe try a socket extension of a certain length and a piece of pipe as a cheater handle on your ratchet (maybe also try heating it).

For the front, a simple wrench (Crescent or otherwise) should work. The front has no drain plug, so you will have to use a suction pump through it's fill hole. Drive it at highway speed with the hubs locked (but with the t-case in 2WD) for 5-10 miles or so right before you suck the fluid out... This will help to get any crap in the bottom suspended in the oil to be sucked out with it.

Welcome to the forums.

 

[kunar]

On an episode of junkyard wars (who remembers that show?) They had to fill an axle after they had worked on it. They filled a zip lock bag with gear oil, stuffed it in and slapped the cover on. Claimed that for the short time they needed it, the plastic wouldn't do any damage. Of course you wouldn't wanna do that with your daily driver, but its a neat trick that's stuck with me for years and years.

 

[Jrousey]

The truck doesn't have a bed anymore so access to the plug is easy, it's just stripped.

Won't be able to get it up to highway speed either because it was totalled and not road legal. We use this only for off-road.

Thank you for the welcome!