Okay to drive in 2wd with dry front diff?

I was trying to save some time this week, so took my truck by the me to change diff and T/C fluids. Well - they forgot to tighten the fill bolt on the front diff, and a bunch leaked out.

I'm not 100% sure what spins when in 2wd - in theory is it safe to drive with a dry front diff if in 2wd?

Thanks so much! I've been a lurker for a while, and the info here has been so helpful

 

No, spider gears and needle bearings need lube

 

Not at all

 

Nope. Lots of moving parts even in 2nd.

 

Thanks everyone - I couldn't remember if the half shafts and front driveshaft spin in 2wd.

 

Half shafts yes, they are connected to your hubs! Front DS no, but it can spin some due to friction.

if only some oil leaked out your fill port, you’re probably in the clear. Just fill back to spec, snug the bolt and forget about it

 

I think this is the case, but will need to check. I guess this is karma for trying to save time and not doing it myself.

 

And yeah - this is just me being a noob. There was conflicting info online, and I think the old manual 4wd systems worked by disconnecting the hubs. I wasn't positive if the tacoma hubs had electronic connections or how that worked.

Thanks for the info! The more you know!

 

No. Always use lube

 

Best to remove the CV axels if you want to try that

 

go buy some of those wheel dollies, put em under the front tires and you should be good.

 

I think this is the real answer

Thanks again everyone! I'm planning to drain the fluid to see how much was actually in there, then scope it out of paranoia to see if anything went boom. I'm pretty sure nothing got hurt, and I can do the change on my own & be good to go.