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Rear axle rust

Discussion in '1st Gen Tundras (2000-2006)' started by jksgto, Oct 9, 2017.

  1. Oct 9, 2017 at 11:59 AM
    #1
    jksgto

    jksgto [OP] New Member

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    Rust.....
    I have a 2003 with serious rust issue on the rear axle and the diff fluid drains out in a period of a few weeks. My mechanic says the rust is so serious it can't be repaired. Does anyone know the interchangeabilty from year to year? All first gens the same and a ball park or what I should be paying? Thanks!

    IMG_8299.jpg
     
  2. Oct 9, 2017 at 12:13 PM
    #2
    Filthyphil

    Filthyphil Lions Not Sheep

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    I believe any limited slip axle would work from what I've researched so don't quote me but the early models didn't have LS. So I would look for a 03-06 rear axle and swap it out. Someone else might help answer this but can you just replace the rear pumpkin cover?
     
    Black Wolf and Patriot like this.
  3. Oct 9, 2017 at 12:16 PM
    #3
    Patriot

    Patriot Member

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    Looks kinda roached especailly if it's leaking...if your gonna keep the truck, maybe check with local junkyards to replace, or order new. A 14 year old truck is going to show some rust if you live in the snow belt or seaside. Someone will chime in here, seasalt and road salt take no prisoners.
    I would get it fixed really soon.
     
  4. Oct 10, 2017 at 4:09 AM
    #4
    jksgto

    jksgto [OP] New Member

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    Rust.....
    My mechanic says the rear axle is so rusted that any attempt to remove the pumpkin cover would likely render it useless. I drive less than a half mile to work every day which pretty much keeps me from doing extended drives. Think i will have to do some junkyard hunting....
     
  5. Oct 10, 2017 at 5:45 AM
    #5
    Festerw

    Festerw New Member

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  6. Oct 10, 2017 at 7:08 AM
    #6
    Patriot

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  7. Oct 10, 2017 at 7:19 AM
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    Festerw

    Festerw New Member

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    I took that to mean the "cover" since it's part of the housing is done for.

    It'd be hard to believe the rest of the axle is trash.
     
  8. Oct 10, 2017 at 8:17 AM
    #8
    jksgto

    jksgto [OP] New Member

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    Rust.....
    I think I need to go underneath with a wire brush to see what I have left firsthand. Will post up pix of results. THANKS!!!!
     
  9. Oct 10, 2017 at 8:47 AM
    #9
    andy9743

    andy9743 New Member

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    this is a good idea. living in the rust belt that doesnt look to bad to be honest..
     
  10. Oct 10, 2017 at 8:58 AM
    #10
    TheBeast

    TheBeast The Beach

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    we have seen worst
     
  11. Dec 6, 2018 at 11:28 AM
    #11
    Mytechguyri

    Mytechguyri New Member

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    So i just went through this ordeal on my Tundra... When the dealer did the frame recall, they put that rust converter stuff everywhere on the rear axle, including covering over the diff vent... So of course it built pressure and sprayed gear oil out of the pinholes in the diff cover like a spraypaint can. So now, I've replaced the vent, and welded on a new Barnes 4wd diff cover, and thought i was all set.

    Nope. The axle housing itself is actually porous, and I've got gear oil weeping through the actual housing everywhere.

    So now, my dilemma is this. I can get a junkyard rear housing for around $150
    But my concern there is, it could have the exact same problem... Rusty and porous.

    Or I can get a factory new housing from the dealer for about $600

    Is this so common a problem that I'll likely be running into this same issue with a junkyard housing?
     
  12. Dec 7, 2018 at 10:34 PM
    #12
    NUDRAT

    NUDRAT 6 lug life

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    Completely depends on the life the donor lived. Junkyards don't want 'problems', so the obvious junk they just sell/process as scrap metal. Parts that appear good they sell & normally will offer a warranty on the item. Me, I'd give the $450 savings a shot as I've had very good luck with used parts. Good luck.
     

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