Drive Axle Service

golfdude18 · Jan 21, 2003

I've passed the 7500 miles at which this service "should" have been performed.

Is this a necessary service or just to keep the service shops busy?

If legit, how much should I expect to pay to have it done?

WS6Y2K · Jan 21, 2003

I don't think you need to service it. I think you just need to inspect the fluid level. I think you need to service it between 30-50 miles depending if you do a lot of towing or live in a dusty area

From the owners manual

http://www.chevyavalanchefanclub.com/resources/owners_manual.htm

check out 7-9 and it says you just need to inspect and add fuild it needed

JohnS · Jan 21, 2003

If you are talking about the rear differential fluid, I changed mine this weekend. You can get Mobil One 75-90 Gear oil at Autozone for about $6.50 a quart. You'll need about 2.25 quarts.

It's easy; just unscrew the drain plug with a socket wrench from the bottom and let it drain out of the pumpkin. Then, unsrew the top plug towards the front of the pumpkin near the drive shaft on top (passengers side) and pour about 1/4 of a quart of new gear oil to help flush the old out. Then replace the bottom plug, and pour the remaining 2 1/4 or so quarts of oil remaining into the top. Replace the top plug and you are done.

If you can't find the plugs, let me know and I'll post some quick pics for you. BTW, I understand that the dealers charge about $150 for this 'service.'

golfdude18 · Jan 22, 2003

Thanks for the info!

new2Chevy · Jan 22, 2003

hey...cool info. I am approaching 7500. At 7300something.

AV rookie, are you experiencing any problems with it? Or just reading up and finding you have to service?

golfdude18 · Jan 22, 2003

Not at this time, Knock - Knock on wood.

I'm at 9100 miles and am about to change my oil and noticed in the manual that this service (inspection) was scheduled every 7500 miles.

pktwatch · Jan 22, 2003

Make sure you know what type of rear differential fluid you need! If you have a locking diff. it will be differant than a standard one.

colek · Jan 23, 2003

Z66 BUTCH said:
Make sure you know what type of rear differential fluid you need! If you have a locking diff. it will be differant than a standard one.

All Avalanche rear differentials require the use of full synthetic 75W-90 fluid. :B:

NJAV · Jan 24, 2003

I was very premature on the rear diff...like someone stated above..it's not do to be maintenanced until the 50,000 mile range....I had 14,000 when I had them change the rear diff..... :B:

Dave