Originally Posted by howardcano

You can also run the diff balls without lubrication. I gave up using lube here many years ago, and have run into no problems.

Here is the rationale: The ball diff functions via friction between the balls and the rings. If there is insufficient friction, then the diff slips. Using lube increases the axial force (diff tightness adjustment) required to achieve sufficient friction, and this places a larger load on the thrust bearing (or worse, the radial bearing that is often used instead, and has a much lower axial load rating).

Try it both ways, and see which you prefer.

Always use lube on the thrust bearing!