Thread: cv lubrication

I've just made good use of the Aussie dollar / US dollar rate and ordered a set of cv's and axles from Keith @ rovertracks now the lube problems start. the reason for replacement is that the axle and hub splines are flogged out after 310,000 km due to wear and the lack of lube.
I've got a pair of maxi drive drive flanges to fit so as to keep the oil in but I need some advise on what to do for lube. the vehicle is a 98 Defender, cv's greased for life therefore only fill hole on the swivel housing, no drain or oil level fittings so the usual removal of the cv shaft seal to allow the oil through can be done but I cant measure the volume and makes it difficult to do a maintenence service what is the service interval on oil change in swivels? if I change to oil filled swivel housing how do I change the oil and measure volume without fill and level holes should I drill and tap plugs or as I can keep out water and other cr@p with the maxi flanges can I use something else such as neverseez on the splines?

Oil is a MUCH better lubricant than grease - including things like neverseize.

You have 3 options:
(1) Swap to earlier model swivels which have drain and filler holes (I helped a mate do this on his 90 - it was easy - only thing to watch for is the earlier swivels have a different thread for the caliper bolts).

(2) Drill and tap filler and drain holes

(3) Pull the oil seal between the axle and the swivel (MD reccommends this). Overfill your diff by about 0.5L each time, and drain by the method you mentioned.

Whichever method you choose, IME it is best to pull all the internal oil seals, so the same oil lubricates the diff, swivels, splines and bearings.