Rear end fluid change

[blown motor]

How often do you change the fluid in the rear end? I've owned the car 13 years and have never opened the rear end. Don't know how old that oil is. There no noise and I have no reason for concern. Just curious what everyone does.

[RUNCHARGER]

Gear oil I tend to leave in about 10 years. If nothing else it's good to see if there is any metal or clutch material in it. One problem with 8 3/4's though is you almost have to pull the axles and pumpkin out so can clean out the gear oil in the bottom. A suction hose doesn't get absolutely everything out.

[Burdar]

If you are going to pull the axles and pumpkin out, make sure to re-pack the wheel bearings before you slide the axles back in. The tapered wheel bearings aren't lubricated by the gear oil.  They need to be packed like the front bearings.

[pschlosser]

If it doesn't leak, and it isn't noisy, you may just want to leave it alone.  Keep in mind, it's a smelly sulfurous fluid, so if you do change it, wear gloves.