Cleaning Front Diff/Hub/Spindle Surfaces (CV Swap in Progress...)

[nc-grayson]

Greetings,

Any recommendations for cleaning the gunk out of the mating surfaces between the CV itself and the front diff/ADD tube & the hub/spindle?

Leaking front axle seal + torn CV boots + lazy mis-re-installation of skids + 4x4 sandy beach = huge gunky mess.

I'm going to town with degreaser/brake parts cleaner/brush/garden hose on the other surrounding surfaces that are gunked up from axle grease and sand, while being mindful of the mating surfaces as I'm not looking to open any can of worms here.

What are my options here? I'm thinking stuff a rag in the holes, and go to town with some high pressure spray brake cleaner, and then re-installing the CV with a copious amounts of bearing grease.

Cautious not to deteriorate any seals or gears, and risk introducing gunk where it's not wanted, anybody have any experience and willing to share their actions?

 

[Unner]

What mating surfaces? The only mating surface that is somewhat exposed is the seal, but you're replacing that anyone. The rest of it is just the outer shell of the front diff.

Or did you get stuff/debris down inside the ADD tube? If so then I feel like it would already have worked it's way into the differential.

 

[99Runnr]

I use shop rags and q-tips. If it's super grimy I would do my spraying and get the majority off when the CV is still installed to prevent anything falling in. Then go over it by hand and get the final cleaning done with it removed.