Giving The Diff A Bath

[AeroNautical]

I've searched around the web a bit trying to find out how to thoroughly clean a differential and axle tubes. I've read brake cleaner works well, I've also read putting your garden hose on one side and filling it until it pours out the other is a good way to get out debris and other nasties. Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical when it comes to putting water where it shouldn't be. How do you guys recommend cleaning up the diff?

 

On a side note: I didn't want to make a new post for this, but I removed my axle shafts and found a startling scorch mark on one of my axles. It doesn't look too bad, but what do you guys make of it?

 

[sloride]

This stuff is bio friendly and cleans up with water.  I'd use super clean, a brush, a hose and finish with a heaping helping of WD-40 (Water Dissipater-40)

http://www.amazon.com/SUPER-CLEAN-DEGREASER-GALLON/dp/B000CCM63K

[onlyinajeep726]

:agree: That's what I use too for pretty much everything grease, oil and grime related on the Jeeps.

[AeroNautical]

Really? I'm surprised that stuff wouldn't be too tough on the seals, thanks for the advice.

 

Any idea on that axle shaft before I put it back in?

 

Edit: It looks bent in the photo, but thats an illusion. It's straight, just got that scorch mark. 

[sloride]

I was under the assumption you had the diff down to bare bones. Using Super Clean with the seals in place might not be a good idea....... Are you talking bearing scorch marks? Is there a ridge in the shaft from the bearing race? Have you checked shaft diameter, bearing surface to non bearing surface?

[Automan2164]

Might as well do the seals if you have everything else out.

 

Rob

[Eagle]

Why would you take the axle down that far to clean it out, and NOT replace the seals?

 

False economy.

[AeroNautical]

I tore it down to install disc brakes, but I figured I would clean it while it was stripped. The scorch is about a quarter way up the shaft, well away from the bearings. It just seems like a machining error from the factory the closer I look at it.

[onlyinajeep726]

I, too, would advise replacing the seals.  It's one of those "while you're there" things and it would be a good peace of mind thing to me.  But yea, SuperClean would be fine for everything but the seals...

[AeroNautical]

I understand it's a smart thing to do, but the seals on there now have MAYBE 1000 miles on em, wanted to save myself some work and money.

[Alexia]

If the axle was entirely stripped of every part, out of the vehicle, and able to be stood up on end then I would run a soapy water mix through it. Only because it could be stood up on end to drain it properly.

 

The only reason I did not do the axle seals on the D44 is because they are pressed on to the axle shaft. One ended up leaking and I have to get it replaced anyway.