After a 40 minute ride yesterday evening, I put it back up on the lift (where it is normally parked) and just happened to check out the rear end, since I just put in some new axles.

I happened to touch the 3rd member case (backside) and it was hot. Touched the axel tubes outwardly towards the wheel, and it was much cooler.

Is the 3rd member normally hot like that? Stupid question, but I just never took notice before and wanted to ask for my own knowledge. It was very similar to a hot oil pan.

Thanks in advance!

Dan

 

Yep. If you notice in a light rain, often times the center section on trucks' axles are dry because the water evaporates off them before the rest of the axle housing. It should be warm to the touch, but I have never been burned by one.