Devices, systems, and methods for differential lubrication

A system for filtering and cooling a differential assembly comprising:

• a cover comprising:
• an exterior surface defining a series of alternating ridges and grooves,
• a series of vertical channels integrally formed on an interior surface of the cover, wherein each ridge of the exterior surface corresponds to a channel of the series of vertical channels of the interior surface,
• a first exit port in fluid communication with a second channel of the series of channels, the second channel configured to direct a flow of lubricant slung therein toward and through the first exit port, and
• a filter assembly coupled with the exterior surface of the cover, the filter assembly comprising an inlet in fluid communication with the first exit port, an outlet integral with an opening to a first channel of the series of vertical channels of the interior surface of the cover, and a body extending between the inlet and outlet, the body configured to receive at least one filter cartridge therein, and
• at least one hose coupled with the first exit port and the inlet of the filter assembly;
• and
• an auxiliary cooling system in fluid communication with a second exit port via a conduit.

A method for filtering and cooling a differential assembly without a pump, the method comprising:

• providing a cover comprising:
• an exterior surface defining a series of alternating ridges and grooves,
• a series of vertical channels integrally formed in an interior surface of the cover, wherein each ridge of the exterior surface corresponds to a channel of the series of vertical channels of the interior surface,
• a filter assembly on the exterior surface of the cover, the filter assembly comprising an inlet, an outlet integral with an opening to a first channel of the series of vertical channels of the interior surface of the cover, and a body extending between the inlet and outlet and configured to receive at least one filter cartridge therein,
• a first exit port in fluid communication with a second channel of the series of vertical channels of the interior surface, the second channel configured to direct a flow of lubricant slung therein toward and through the first exit port, and
• at least one hose coupled with the first exit port and the inlet of the filter assembly,
• wherein the cover is affixed to a vehicular rear differential housing and defines a reservoir therewith;
• rotating a ring gear positioned within an interior of the vehicular rear differential housing to sling lubricant within the reservoir into the second channel of the cover;
• and
• directing the flow of the slung lubricant using the second channel of the cover through the first exit port and into the filter assembly;
• wherein rotation of the ring gear drives the slung lubricant through the second channel, through the filter assembly via the first exit port, and back into the interior of the vehicular rear differential housing via the outlet of the filter assembly.