Opinion on changing differential oil

[Moose84]

I have a 1984 D100 and I would like to change the differential oil. I don't know when or if it's ever been changed. I know the right way to change it is to remove the plate and clean out the accumulated gunk but I'm concerned that one of the bolts holding the plate might snap and since I'm working out of the driveway I'm kinda screwed. The other option is to suck out as much gear oil as I can and refill it through the fill hole. Which do you think is the better move?

 

[WY-Dave]

Option 3, take it to a shop. If a bolt breaks then hopefully they can remove/repair it. This way next time you know that it is good to go for a self change. See if you can find a shop that will charge labor only and you supply the gear oil and gasket. Heck they might be able to weld in a drain in the cover. Also take a look at lubelocker gaskets, they are resuable and great. I had them on my Jeeps and after some fun the water, I would change the oil.