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Today a co worker asked me why my rear diff cover was so rusty looking even though my JK was basically new (2000 miles). I had not been up under the Jeep since I checked all of my bolts a few hundred miles after installing the lift.

Went to check it out and sure enough it looked worse than the diff cover on my 82 CJ8. When I arrived to my house after driving the 10 miles from work, it was definitely hot to the touch. Unfortunately, since I don't routinely climb under the Jeep and check the temp of the diff cover, I have no idea if this is how it was on day 1 or if this is something new. I assume that it is heat that has caused this discoloration since rain is not real common here in S. Texas / N. Mexico.

Even though it is dark here I went out and took a photo. I plan to check my fluid level in the morning but just wanted to see if any of you had experienced anything like this with your JKs.

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

theres other threads like this.,
the best solution is to replace with an aftermarket cover, Such as Solid.

 

just rattle can it and go on about your day lol

 

As they say from wherever "they" are - "that ain't right!". Unless you dunk your diff in a brine solution, I'd say you have a problem that's worth checking out!

Edit: Saw the link below. Must be that I'm from AZ, but I had my YJ for 12 years and never saw rust like that!

 

I'd say its just cheap paint.
https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/show...ight=diff+rust

 

I would venture to say it is more road grime or surface rust that can be fixed with a spray can. Mine looked exactly like that. I sprayed it with degreaser and washed it off. It might be more serious though and if thats the case order some diff covers like the above posts said.

 

Thanks for everyone's input (especially Piginajeep for the link). I will check the fluid tomorrow and if it's ok I will just keep on keeping on. I personally don't care if it's rusted because of a piece of crap paint job but I didn't want to take the chance that somenow my drive shaft angle after the lift was putting some kind of strain on the differential. Thanks again.

 

I'd say it's just cheap paint. Evev my frame was starting to rust, so i took a rattle can to it.

 

my stock one rusted om my heap and my f250 nothing to worry about if there is fluid wire brush it and call it a day

 

Mine's not that bad, but is showing some rust. Need to tackle it before the road salt takes hold.