Changing differential fluid - A step by step "HOW TO"

I have an 06 Toyota Tacoma TRD SPORT.

If I want to use Mobile one synthetic for my rear and front diffs can I use the same oil. Do I have to add an additive?

 

Is there a certain brand of additive that is better than the other?
Also what is "Dino Oil" ? What brand of oil do you recomend for the difs??

 

Also what is "Dino Oil" ? What brand of oil do you recomend for the difs??

 

Is it only the rear Diff that Gets the LS additive? Does the front need it as well??

 

GM now makes a gear oil developed for Corvette lsds that is excellent. It's called Dexron LS 75-90. It includes the additive and has cured the horrible chatter problem that was plagueing the newer Corvettes. Part number is 88862624, but it retails for over $20 a quart. I don't plan on using it in my Tacoma, because I have an open diff, so I'll just use Mobil1 or Redline. Those of you with the Sport model might give it a try and see what you think. The additive that Chris is talking about is still available and runs about $12.00 for a bottle. One bottle should be enough for a Tacoma. Part #1052358.

 

The front diff does not need additive.

 

i talked to amsoil rep... since i told them i have a rear locker... I dont need the additives and the regular 75-90 is fine.

 

anyone change their differential fiuid just using

$30 75w-90 Synthetic Gear Lube - 1 Quart (Pack of 2)

75w-90 on in their rear locker yet?
thanks!

 

I don't have a locker, but as far as I know, only limited slip diffs require additive. LSDs have a clutch pack in the rear carrier that require a friction modifier that is in the additive.

 

Like a dumbass, I failed to follow instructions. I unscrewed the drain plug first and then the TRIED the fill plug but its too tight to get it off. Any ideas on how to get it off?

 

Also, my differential fluid was leaking a few days ago, its pretty much all gone and I havent driven it since. I discovered that the 7-8 small bolts in front of the rear axle were loose (i could easily move them with my hands) and so I just tightened them down and am now planning to refill. Im hoping this doesnt continue to leak and that the loose bolts were what was causing the problem. What do you guys think? Is there a seal around that area that couldve broken and caused it all? Or is it likely that the loose screws were the sole problem?

 

I have a feeling this is going to be a long day....

 

I see someone recommended some penetrating oil, will anything do? I was thinking wd-40?

 

lol. thats for sure. I walked out to my truck and made a mental note to make sure I did the fill plug first. Once I got under the truck , all common sense went out the window. thanks for your help though, Chris. I appreciate it.