Changing diff, transfer case and transmission fluids?

Hi guys,

I'm planning to change my oils this weekend (diffs, transfer case , transmission) and maybe motor oil. I was suppose to go to a self-serve garage nearby but they are closed permanently.

Can this maintenance be performed without lifting the truck and just crawling under? Since i've got to keep it leveled and only got 2 stands, it's either that or i'll have to drive on the other side of the city...

Also, i think this is pretty obvious, but i suppose that each item requires a new crush washer?

Thanks!!

 

I changed all 3 without lifting the truck, your local dealer should have the washers in stock its not a bad idea to get new ones but I'm pretty sure you can reuse them.

If you live somewhere where they salt the roads prepare for battle with the plugs lol.. they're easy to strip too :/

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/front-diff-and-transfer-case-oil-change-howto.147631/

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/changing-differential-fluid-a-step-by-step-how-to.24545/

 

Alright that sounds good, Thanks for the links, i already did my homework but it's nice to have them on hand when i'll be doing it!

 

If you do it yourself (which you should, its super easy even I can do it), make sure you loosen the fill plugs BEFORE draining....you don't want to drain your diffs or transmission only to find out you can't get the fill plug off to put oil in.

 

You'll have to remove the front skid plate to change the front diff. The rear diff and transfer case is easy, but the trans takes a special procedure, WS fluid, and there's no dipstick. Most people don't DIY the trans and the dealer will charge you north of $300. Not saying it can't be done and that some can't do it, but be sure it's done right.

 

He has a manual trans, takes gear oil just like the diffs and t-case (I assume he does anyway from the "5MT" in his description)

 

Yeah ive got a manual trans, I've already purchased mt-90 for trans and transfer case and 75w85 for diffs

 

Get at least one decent pump for the gear oil and a cheap backup - ask me why I recommend this... let's just say I finished up my transmission by filling ziploc bags and doing the "cake frosting" method by cutting a corner off of each one and squeezing it into the fill hole after my four and a half star Amazon pump started puking oil out of the seal.

 

Hahahaha, yeah I've bought a pump, I think the cake frosting method will have to do as a backup since i couldn't find any cheap options in the store.

 

This drill pump was well worth the $, especially with the front diff.

 

Any reason you use 80w90 instead of 75w90? Just curious

 

i believe its gl-4 75w90 for transfer case and trans and gl-5 75w85 for diffs

 

Must be a 2nd gen thing, for 1st gens (1995-2004) it's 75w90 for all 4 (diffs, t-case and transmission).

 

Break in fluid / what they had in a gallon

 

MT-90 is a good call. It may just be me but I noticed a major improvement after making that change. Drill pump is probably the best advice given so far. I wish someone would've given me that advice.

 

Redline MT90 is great stuff. I had it in for a short while before I had to get a new clutch put in and the dealer switched it for their regular oil. Big difference in how it shifts, the Redline MT90 was so much smoother. Going to drain/fill my trans with it again here pretty soon.

 

Pages 58-60 of the 2013 Owner's Manual recommend "GL-4 or GL-5 75W-90" for the transmission & transfer case and "GL-5 75W-85" for both differentials.

This is true - I did the same with my 1st Gen, but I also do the same for my 2nd Gen.

I've also had good results with Amsoil Severe Gear 75W-90. After upgrading to it, MT shifting, the transfer case (in and our of 4WD), and the Rear Diff Locker functionality were improved.

 

Looking at just the two diffs and transfer case....It's an easy but messy job but worth the money saved by doing it yourself. The pump needed is around $10 at any Walmart or auto parts store or wherever. It's so cheap I just throw it away after I'm done using it...the whole job DIY costs around $100 with 6 Qts of fluid and pump and an hour of time.

I'm ready to do tranny fluid and debating whether or not I trust myself to do it correctly or take it to a pro....

 

I finally did my transmission flush. Used a drill pump. Forgive me for not posting link im on my phone but there's a good thread for diy.

 

Auto or manual? I'm not sure how the process is for autos but manuals are just as easy as doing the rear diff.