So... just to be clear, on 1998 & later 4WDs, the Front Diff is a Dana 35, AND...

[fixizin]

... there is NO aftermarket diff cover on Earth that will fit in that cramped space???

In fact at fluid change time, best to just SUCK out the old goo, and not even try to crack open that jury-rig??

Let me know, thanks in advance.

 

[Roert42]

You have to drop the diff you get the cover off. I added a drain bolt to mine, but later realized that there is not enough space to remove the bolt.
Best way to add a drain would be to add a drain plug on the bottom of the differential using a tapered pipe thread.

 

[pjtoledo]

the Dana part is about as flat as it can be

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[fixizin]

Thanks gang, just double-checking...

 

[sgtsandman]

When I dropped mine, I drilled a hole and tapped it for pipe threads so I could install a pipe thread plug. That way I don’t have to drop it again unless it needs some kind of mechanical work.

I placed the plug close enough to the reinforcement rib to protect it from impacts but far enough away to easily get a wrench on it.