Gear oil changed

[Xxl2]

I flushed out my rear axle let it dry good before putting things back together. The oil was black enough kind of had that used smell so i am sure it will be happier. It now has JT7 syn. I used a fle pro gasket to seal it. A few things i noticed. First i didnt have a magnet in the cover to clean. Second there are two holes that are in line with the axle shafts. What do these do? I know i didnt clog them becuase i used a gasket and they are cut out Just wanting to learn more. Happy to say no drips from the rear and took the truck around the block Its a 10 bolt rear also 3.42 open diff

 

[Pinger]

The holes are for 'stretching' the casing when fitting the diff in. See pic below.

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[1998_K1500_Sub]

The holes are for 'stretching' the casing when fitting the diff in. See pic below.

How many thousandths can one spread that housing, using that tool?

 

[Pinger]

How many thousandths can one spread that housing, using that tool?

I've no idea. And given that it is safe to jack the whole back end of the truck up under the pumpkin - who knows?
I'm just hoping my axle has the pre-load adjuster if I have to remove the cage from the casing.

 

[stutaeng]

How many thousandths can one spread that housing, using that tool?

I didn't measure it, but enough to avoid pounding and deforming the side carrier shims when you reinstall them.

BTW, that's my mess in that photo

 

[Schurkey]

How many thousandths can one spread that housing, using that tool?

Wrong question.

Question should be "How many thousandths SHOULD one spread that housing, using that tool."

I have every expectation that you "can" spread the housing so far that it permanently distorts, or cracks.

 

[1998_K1500_Sub]

Wrong question.

Question should be "How many thousandths SHOULD one spread that housing, using that tool."

I have every expectation that you "can" spread the housing so far that it permanently distorts, or cracks.

Agreed, with the added question of “Can that tool sufficiently spread the rear?” It’s not too formidable a tool as-built, by appearances IMHO, but perhaps it’s sufficient.