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

Quick question for guys using Royal Purple. Do I need to add friction modifier for my LS rear? I did a quick drive, just to get rid of the old oil, and the rear feels tighter, does that mean I'm binding, or am I good?

 

Took care of my rear dif today at just just under 60k. Amsoil 75/90 severe synthetic and Trans-x lsd additive. Pretty easy job. Worst of it is dropping the spare - gotta do the guide mod. Toyota dealer sold me 1 correct crush washer and 1 incorrect larger copper flat washer. I put the new crush on the drain and reused the fill and I'll keep an eye on it.

 

Changed rear differential fluid today. Drain bolt had some sludge & metal chips. Fluid looked good though. I'm right at 30K miles.


Really good how-to write up. Appreciate you taking the time to do it chris4x4 & brianr.

 

I had metal chips on my magnet. I found a few in particular to be on the larger size.

 

Mine was the same, I wouldn't worry about it. Unless someone else says otherwise.

 

Thinking about changing the rear diff fluid in my 2013 Access cab. Truck is at 42k and i bought it at 35k. Don't know if its ever been done before but its so easy and im sure it wouldn't hurt to change it!

 

Do it, real easy. easier than a oil change.

 

I'll have to look in the book and see how much it takes and stop and get some fluid on the way home from work. Where can u get one of those quart pumps or i guess u dont need it if you get that bottle with the small needle like tip right?

 

I bought the pump from autozone, way easier that way. Just make sure your on a level surface.

something like this.... there are about 6 bucks.

$8 Lubrimatic 55-001 4CC Fluid Pump for Quart Size Bottles

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BQW5LK

 

Sounds good. Gonna go out and get the book now and see what it takes and how much!!!!

 

Most gear oils come with the 'needle tip'

 

So looks like the book says "Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL or equivalent. What the heck is LT 75W-85???? LOL And the capicity it says is 3.12 qtuarts so i guess i gotta buy 4 quarts lol

 

I would assume it would be best to go with the RedLine

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

75W-90 Gear Oil or Mobile 1 75W-90? And do i need 3 or 4 quarts since it says max fil 3.12 quarts in the book?

 

You might be able to get away with 3qts, but get 4 to be on the safe side. I'm a valvoline fanboy so my vote is with them.

 

Does the drain plug or fill plug have the magnet on it for the rear diff? When I did mine I Put the magnet on the drain is that correct?

 

The drain plug has the magnet. Pull the chips/debris to low point of housing.

 

Sweet thanks. I was pretty sure that was correct but thanks for the peace of mind.

 

I am attempting to remove the fill plug on my rear differential. This may sound like a dumb question but loosening the bolt by turning to the left? That is what I am attempting with a breaker bar but it won't budge. Any suggestions?

 

Lefty Loosie, Rightie Tightie lol. It should come. Spray some pb blaster on it and let it soak a little!!!!