Axles filled holes ??

[Saberr]

I have barely messed with axles before. The few times i have, i have noticed holes about 1 inch wide around the main pumpkin, what are they for ? They are usualy filled, and only got real curriouse becouse i noticed on my dana 25 front axle, it seemed like some the metal filler (prob weld) was eaten away, and saw rust forming underneath. I am guessing its part of the manufacture process, but would love a deffinit answer. I've looked around on web, and found nothing. In the picture, you can see two of them right above break line.

[dauntless]

Those are called plug welds. They are welded up to attach the axle tube to the housing. Nothing to worry about all differentials have them. Clean them up and paint .

[Saberr]

Neat, ya i have seen them on all axles past and present. Good to know there plug welds.