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

Okay, I read through this thread and saw a question asked twice that I have. I have a 2009 reg cab and the manual says the dif uses 75-85W GL5. I ordered some from redline but I was wondering why 75-85 instead of the more std 75-90?

 

I have another question. What does the forum think about putting anti-sieze compound on the plugs to make them easier to loosen the next time?

 

I've always used it for the reason you give - to make it easier to loosen the next time - they are 2 different metals. That being said I've read that Toyota does not recommend it. I'll do it anyway on my truck because it works.

 

If you use any anti sieze or some type of lubricant you would half to multiply your torque rating by any where to .45 to 1.70. This all depends upon the type of lubricant or what grade of bolt you are using. This is to adjust for the lubricants to get the same amount of torque. This info I have found in a small hand held book called"Pocket Ref" by Thomas J.Glover. It is a fourth edition reference book with just about any thing you might need or want to know. I bought it off Amazon.com

 

Will be doing this on the weekend,

1. What amount of oil do I need for the transfer case?

2. What amount of oil do I need for the front diff?

3. Is the oil the same for all 3? (Front/Rear Diff & T-Case)

 

I have a 2.7 but I would think the 4.0 would be the same oil wise. I used the same back to front and just put it in till it started to come out. No problems. I've always done it this way.

 

Thanks for the great write-up guys...did this yesterday and it was almost too easy

 

I tried to search this tread the best I could, but only kept finding mixed answers so...

I have a 2006 prerunner tacoma with the TRD off road package. I know it has a locking rear differential that I can operate from inside the cab, but is this considered an LSD?

In other words, what I am trying to figure out is if I need to add a LSD additive OR do I just use regular 75-90w gear oil?

 

i got my dino oil fron napa and the had the exact oil listed in ther owners manual word for word on the bottle but mine took 3 1/2 till it overflowed drove it a little and checked it agin none came out ( truck is a 07 2.7 4x4 lsdrear)

 

Thanks Chris

 

This is a great write up and with pic even, I read like 15 pages and said screw it...I have a 02 prerunner TRd with I believe its the electronic locker? It has a button that says RR diff lock. Im new to Toyota's, Ive always had ford and Chevy's so im used to fixing things. I want to use PR but i want to get the right stuff.

 

My dad's 1964 Chevy half-ton has over 500,000 miles on it (not sure of the exact mileage, speedo cable gave out for a few years). The truck is on it's 3rd engine. It still has the factory oil in the transmission and the LSD. All he's ever done is put more LSD additive in it. I cringe when I think of what it must look like inside the transmission and differential housing. I can't convince him that the godawful whine while at speed is due to failed lubrication. Needless to say I'll be changing all of my gear fluids at the proper intervals. Thanks for the writeup!

 

Is the torque the same on the front diff. drain-fill plugs as the rear, 36 FT-LB? Also theres no grease fittings on the front drive shaft slide yoke any info would be welcome. Thanks! This is the place to go for Taco Info

 

Did this about a week ago with around 45k on the truck. OEM oil was positively black!

 

Wonder if a little antisize on the plug threads would make it easier next time.

 

great write up guys. so what is the final say on changing these 15,000 or 30,000? Is it just personal preference?

 

I never measure anything. I just pour it in the top til it comes out the bottom. Never had any problem. I do the same with the front dif - transfer case - trans etc if I remember correctly. If it has a drain low and a fill high that is what I do. I think the important thing is to change it on a timely basis.