Cleaning rear diff assembly housing
 

Decided to swap back to stock rear diff gear ratio, so picked up a used rear diff off eBay. Supposedly it’s off a 2017 with 1.6k miles but it’s pretty dirty and rusty at least the outside housing is.

Looking to try and clean it make it look relatively newish. And maybe do a thorough “flushing” out of the inside.
What’s the best way to clean all this?
What precautionary measures do I need to take?
The axles aren’t in obviously so I figure taping that off with a plastic bag, then a rust spray and wire brush then a thermal black paint after?
If I pressure wash it to clean it first does it matter if water gets inside the axle housing portion? What is the best way to clean/flush the inside? Just fill her up drain and fill again?

Hum... personally I'll just scrub it with simple green, slap it on, fill her up and call it a day.
But if i want it a bit pretty rattle can it.

I wouldn't even bother pressure washing it or even painting it. It's going to get dirty the moment you drive it.

Yep, I agree with ol @Mr.ac (this time - :D).

I'd be more concerned about it being installed correctly rather than how it looks.

Of course, drain all the old oil out first and if it is full of metal shavings and is the color of chocolate milk - :iono:


humfrz

Degreaser
Wire Brush
Acetone/Brake Clean, Etc

Rust paint
Good Enough