Questions about changing the cv axle

[mngtp]

The passenger side cv axle is going to need to be replaced.

I have two questions:

1. Should get a new or used replacement? I have read that the new ones generally last a year or so. So I'm wondering if a used one will last longer provided the used one doesn't have a ton of miles on it.

2. I know that some trans fluid will leak out when replacing the cv axle, with 244,xxx miles on the car should I do a pan drop/filter change/top off or just top off the fluid and leave it alone? The fluid is a darker red. It seems to be shifting a little funny but I don't know if it's really doing it or if I'm just paranoid. Either way how much trans fluid will I need?

Thanks I advance.

[FordMan77]

I'd get a reman Napa Gold axle and call it a day. They seem to be the best ones besides OEM. Never tried a used one since I don't know how it was treated beforehand. Others may have better info on a used one.

Question is when was the last time the fluid/filter done? At that mileage I'd do a pan drop/filter change and install a Trans-Go shift kit while the pan is off. It will help the trans live longer. Some throw a quart of Lucas in it as well at this point.

[Scottydoggs]

when you do the axle jack the car up so its higher on the side your working on, very little fluid will come out. lay a rag under it it will be enough to catch the dripping you may have, or not.

napa reman axle went in my car, still rocking it 4 years later now.

244,000 the trans that fluid had best be red and not dark or burnt smelling if so leave it be.

[mngtp]

The trans fluid is dark. Almost like a brown like fresh engine oil is. Doesn't smell burnt though. Should I just leave the fluid and filter alone?
Could it possibly do more harm than good to do a pan drop service (filter change and fluid top off)?

When replacing the cv axle, do I need to raise both sides of the car or just the bad side (passenger side)?

[Scottydoggs]

if its dark you maybe better off to not touch the tranny. it may not survive.

the axle, you only need to lift the side your working on, if its higher then the other side nothing to a very little bit of fluid will come out, (talking table spoon or 2's worth maybe) not enough to worry about replacing any fluid thats for sure.