metal filings
Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 4,968
Likes: 3
From: So Cal
Yes and no. Metal chips smaller than rice are somewhat normal for differentials, especially after initial new breakin. Later in life, the diff shouldn't have many particles unless something is gettign chipped or worn. I would not expect more than maybe 3 or 4 at the first change and fewer after that. If the number of filings increases at each change then something is wearing out, probably fast.
There are also fuzzy metal filings that will stick to the magnet in the diff. They will look like grey silvery fuzzy paste. Depending on how often you change and how badly worn your rear is, the fuzz shouldn't be thicker than say 1/4 inch or so.
Assuming the rear is working fine and doesn't make any noise, and that the amount and size of filings is as described above, I would drain the fluid, clean out as much oil and debris as I could, using your finger to flip stuff out of the puddles is effective and lets you get a good feel. Inspect the drain pan for debris and then put in a good fluid.
If you have lots of chips then you probably need some work done. Inspect the gears for uneven wear or chips. You might need to pull the axles to look at the bearings and the shaft.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
There are also fuzzy metal filings that will stick to the magnet in the diff. They will look like grey silvery fuzzy paste. Depending on how often you change and how badly worn your rear is, the fuzz shouldn't be thicker than say 1/4 inch or so.
Assuming the rear is working fine and doesn't make any noise, and that the amount and size of filings is as described above, I would drain the fluid, clean out as much oil and debris as I could, using your finger to flip stuff out of the puddles is effective and lets you get a good feel. Inspect the drain pan for debris and then put in a good fluid.
If you have lots of chips then you probably need some work done. Inspect the gears for uneven wear or chips. You might need to pull the axles to look at the bearings and the shaft.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
