replacing front differential fluid question

[1998Explodasport]

I want to replace the front differential fluid in my 1998 SOHC 2 door sport but it looks like the diff has to come out to remove the cover. Can anyone give me a little advice on removing the front diff. My only concern is removing the axles, what is the proper way to remove them without damaging anything. Thank you.

 

[my pos mounty]

Remove the "HUB" cap
Loosen the axle nuts on both sides
Get truck on jackstands
remove front tires
Remove brake hardware
seperate the upper balljoint from the knuckle
seperate the lower balljoint from the knuckle
Remove the axle nut
remove the outboard end of CV from knuckle, don't bend it around too far
climb under truck, get long sturdy screwdriver between the inboard end of CV and the differential, pry outwards. Cv should pop right out. Again don't let it flop like a dead fish.
Repeat on other side
Climb back under truck, there are 2 (maybe 3??) mounting points from front diff to frame, loosen bolts
Remove axle assembly

HOWEVER:
you could just suck the diff fluid out of the fill hole, and refill from there. Unless you have other front differential issues, why remove the whole assembly? Sucking out and replacing should be good enough.

 

[Kriegen]

You can also get a fluid pump that will allow you to stick a hose down the fill point and suck it all out. Won't be able to get everything, but you will get the majority and you won't have to remove the front diff.

 

[1998Explodasport]

Thanks for the replies, I already sucked out all the fluid three times over the past year and for some reason it keeps turning into a milky grey color so I am going to assume that I have some issue in there and I just want to inspect the inside.