Since the pumpkin has seals next to the axle shaft splines, it's arguably better with open knuckles for the ends of the axle housing to be open since then any contaminants can get out as easily as they get in. Seal up the axle housing opening where the axle exits the tube and one runs the risk of trapping contaminants that then
might build up enough to overcome the pumpkin seals. I also wonder how much lateral, off-center movement occurs at the axle between the wheel joint cross and the housing end which would stress any seal's ability to maintain its shape and sealing ability with the front axle engaged under torque.
In any case, I think water entering the housing ends is the greater danger over mere dirt, rocks, and plant matter. Water, when the axle is submerged, can easily travel toward the diff seals. Dirt, etc., cannot migrate inward easily unless water rushing in helps.
I think a diff cover with a dipstick would prove useful since then one could easily check for water contamination without the hassle of gasket scraping and resealing. I've also wanted to try one of the diff covers that have a clear tube that the pumpkin's oil travels thru for instant water contanmination check ability. Or even one of the clear, polycarbonate diff covers. I change my front diff oil yearly if any stream crossings have occured. Sometimes right after a stream crossing just to see what's what inside.
OTOH, Alloy USA makes
seals for Jeep TJ front D44 housing ends, but Jeep owners will buy anything as long as its bolt-on and shiny.
