Starting to tear my extra differential apart. Not all the way, but just enough to put new seals on it and give it a thorough cleaning. My question to anyone who might know is...

When i open it up, how do I get all the gear lube cleaned out of it? My parts washer uses a waterbased solvent that is only good if you wash all the parts down immediately after cleaning them so as not to rust them. In a differential that is impossible to do unless I take it all the way apart.

Don't clean all the gear lube out of it. Just drain it and put new gear oil in like you would when you change the fluid, and clean/paint the exterior.

Consider this problem solved.... Found a shop that will use a solvent wash and bake system.... Takes one hour and $35.00. Good way to start fresh.... New lube and fresh paint.