do I really need to top up diff fluid after front axle swap?

do I really need to top up diff fluid after a front axle swap?

had to replace the front driver side cv axle and boy was it a tough one, both a m/f of a job and it's crazy hot today, so now I'm exhausted and if it's not entirely necessary, I'd like to not, but will if it's strongly suggested.

cheers

 

You do lose some gear oil when you pull and replace a cv axle. Not enough to cause catastrophic failure though if you left the fluid level where it is though.

I've always topped off and called it a day.

A cv axle replacement is what, half an hour job?

I'd top it off after having replaced the axle; I keep a big jug along with other fluids for these sorts of things.

 

Heck, from empty the diffs take what, a quart, at most, of oil? Like Kwik said, keep a gallon jug of your favorite diff oil, that way, even if you drain them completely, you can fill them both twice. For a cv change, you might need a half a fill at most. Get one of those pump handles that screw right onto the jug. Maybe two pumps at most, and you're done. Takes a few moments, and well worth it. Better to have a diff filled to the proper level (the bottom of the fill hole), than one that seizes up when you're out on a trail someplace.

All just my opinions, though. I know how it is, working on a vehicle in the heat. I lived in Yuma, Az for almost 30 years, and did all my own work. Yuma is a HOT place, too. I always kept all the fluids filled properly, though. Heck, a quick trip inside for a nice shot of your favorite beverage will cool you down to the point that filling a diff is a nothing job.

Good luck!
Pat☺