I was thinking of changing my rear axle fluid this weekend and as I was looking through the owners manual I found this......

"5 Your vehicle’s rear axle is filled with a synthetic rear axle lubricant and
is considered lubricated for life. These lubricants do not need to be
checked or changed unless a leak is suspected, service is required or the
axle assembly has been submerged in water. The axle lubricant should
be changed any time the rear axle has been submerged in water."

I have never had my truck in water so do I change it or not? I am thinking that if I don't change it I am just asking for problems....what say you?

 

I changed mine at about 100,000 miles...it smelled ok, well as ok as gear oil can smell. I replaced it with Royal Purple gear oil of the appropriate weight, can't recall the specs. I have 141,000 miles on it, towed 2 uhaul trailers from Tampa to Knoxville and have not heard a peep from it yet.

 

Better to safe than sorry. I just recently had mine changed, along with all underbody fluids just for a preventive measure at 117k miles. Which is less... 3qts synthetic gear oil and modifier.... or a tow bill?? just my 2 cents

 

That is my feeling, I am at 130,000 and I am trying to do preventative maintenance to keep my truck dependable...thanks guys!!

 

If you have a limited slip rear, definitely change it. If not, it sure wouldn't hurt.