Had a slow weekend due to inclement weather. I went over the maintenance schedule for my 02 4.3L, and found the axel schedule to be ambiguous. Reading directly from the GM service manual, it states. Axel should be checked for proper fluid level every 3,000 miles for short trip scenarios. Now for the ambiguous part, at the end of the maintenance description there is a footnote reference. If you go to footnote, it reads Axel service procedure. If you then go to the axel service procedure description, it says the axel fluid to be drained and refilled. That's the same on every single 3,000 mile increment entry. Basically, GM is saying the axel oil needs to be replaced every oil change. That's cannot be right. Any one else spot this?

 

I don't see it as a mistake, only an ambiguous intention. They specifically called out the fluid level to be checked every 3000 miles. They reference the service procedure to call out the method by which the fluid level should be checked, not that they are saying to perform a complete service on that particular component.

As to how often you should be checking your axle fluid level I can only say what I do as a pre-trip inspection or during any engine oil change. I inspect all sealing areas of the axle(s), engine, transfer case (if equiped), & transmission for signs of fluid leaks. If everything appears dry, I do not go through the effort of checking the fluid level. If leaks are present or the service interval for that particular component has elapsed, I will pull the fill plug & take a look at the level or perform the service; which ever is required, but I will always remove the fill plug first. I've been bitten a few times by draining the fluid only to find a froze fill plug...