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Just had my gears redone, and I am breaking them in, per warranty, 500 miles of stop and go driving, then a fluid change, before towing again. Up to about 400 miles now... Ran about $2K all told, went with a heavier Yukon Performance type gear, etc...
But the then I got to thinking...
I had both axles done. Erm, do the front gears still spin when NOT engaged in 4WD? On the '03 F350 SD? I have the manual/auto hubs (next on my hit list of things to replace). On some models of 4WD they do depending on the "type" of 4WD... But wasn't sure on the Ford.
Because if not, I need to make a date with some forest service roads!
The front gears will not turn if the auto system is working right. Here is the way to grease the hubs. LINK. I like the auto hubs and switch. When you are on a pretty straight road, put your truck in 4x4 and drive for as long as you don't have to make a sharp turn. That also keeps it in good shape.
Another thing to consider is that your front diff doesn't do much towing, unless you tow exclusively in situations where 4WD is required.
It was more of an after thought on the break-in period. I.e. change fluid after first 500 miles etc for warranty purposes, when they really have not been technically broke in (meaning the front gears). So kinda pointless to change the oil out on the front differential at this time until I get more in-use miles on the front axle.
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