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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.

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 .

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