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

I think it's high time you take that thing out and WHEEL IT!!!

 

15/16" = 23.8mm so I'm sure either 15/16" or 24mm will work . . . it prolly depends on how much the hex is corroded.

 

thanks Paul, I am mathmatically challenged (among other things).

 

when I go to replace the transfer case and rear differential fluids... do i need to replace the gaskets? how did you guys pour the fluid into the it? I guess a pump jug?

should I change the front differential fluid when I hit 60k? I dont tow much... I like to go off-road right on the state's property here and there

 

so I need 4 gaskets?

 

I guess any gaskets will work? it is the same one as the oil drain plug?
toyota charges like $1 a gaskets!! they should be 10 cents I tell ya!!

 

no, the oil drain plug gasket was a dollar... I dont know the ones used for the differential or transfer case... probably more? they love making money on parts! Is the american way!

 

Damn. I still need to do this. Thanks for the write-up guys!

 

Yep,
It has the additive.. I used Redline 75W90 gear oil in both diffs and transfer case. No chatter at all in rear diff. As well as Redline MT90 in my tranny.. Good stuff.

 

so I just want to make sure... 2 quart in the transfer case and 3 qt for the rear differential? I'm going to do it when 30k comes... which is soon. I'm not going to do the front since I dont do towing much and only run the 4x4 here and there....
I have amsoil... since I have locking rear... they told me that I dont need the additives... the

$29 75w-90 Synthetic Gear Lube - 1 Quart (Pack of 2)

75w-90 already has it...

 

I can't speak for the transfer case, but as far as the rear end went...

It didnt take the full 3 quarts, there was probably a 1/4 quart left when it was all said and done. (don't quote me on that though...)

 

I think I read somewhere in this thread that the change should be done at or around 30k, but what if I don't tow anything or even used 4x4 yet ( I know, I need to get out more) should I even bother? I've got 23k on it right now.

 

Brian, I'd do it anyways. its better be safe than sorry.

if you look at the images, you can see all the tiny metal shaving stuck on the magnet.

 

does anyone have a write up on how to do the front diff?

 

It's not that hard. Pretty much the same as the rear diff, except the fill/drain plugs take a 10mm hex instead of a 24mm socket. The amount of oil the front diff takes is in your owners manual.

If you have the TRD Offroad package, you will have to drop the *rear portion of the engine skid plate* to access the front diff. This *only applies to TRD Offroad Trucks*. Non-TRD's with the skid plate do not have this rear portion.

If you do need to drop the rear portion of the skid plate, you will need a 3" ratchet extension...two of the bolts holding the rear portion skid plate on are in recessed placements.

 

anyone use castrol syntec

$29 75w 90 Synthetic Gear Lube - 1 Quart (Pack of 2)

75w 90 gear oil