Front differential

millstoneman · Post by **millstoneman** » Fri Sep 17, 2021 7:38 am

Hey guys, this is my first post as a new member. I have owned my 52 M-38 for 35 years now. I have on a couple of occasions unbeknownst to me, driven on the pavement in four wheel drive. I don't recall at that time, the tires scrubbing on the pavement when turning. Can this put premature wear on the drive train? I think when this happened it was only for a few miles. Also when I check the front diff gear oil it is much thicker, almost like light viscosity grease versus the rear diff oil which is normal appearing. I have changed the front diff oil numerous times and because its so thick I have to remove the cover to flush out all of the oil. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks, Millstoneman

Post by **wesk** » Fri Sep 17, 2021 10:46 am

No, Occasional accidental use of 4WD on hard surfaces seldom does any serious damage.

Lightly used or almost never used oil will maintain it's original viscosity much much much longer then gear oil that is driven between gears continuously which tends to loose it's original viscosity!