Split Rear Differential

I need to change the fluid in the differentials but the owners manual indicates different fluid for a split rear differential. No wanting to sound like a noob but what is a "split rear differential" and how do I know if I have one?

 

Are you sure it didn't say "limited slip" differential? Never heard of a "split" differential...

And yes, a limited slip differential requires fluid with the limited slip (or LSD) additive. You can find it at any auto parts store. I use this stuff in mine, keep in mind though I have a '04 Tacoma so the gear oil weight your truck requires might be different, I'm not sure. Be sure to use what your manual states.

 

Look at your pumpkin in the back, if it needs the additive it should say on there unless it came off. I think it is only the TRD Sport in that year that will potentially need it.

 

If the limited slip differential uses clutches to produce the limited slip effect, then yes the additive is required. Some of the Tacoma models do not use clutches for the LSD. Rather, the limited slip system uses an *open* differential and if a wheel spins, the computer activates the brake on the slipping wheel only. This will transfer more power to the wheel that is not spinning.

For these brake-activated LSD systems, the open differential does not require the LSD additive... it won't hurt to use the additive, I'm just saying it is not required in all of the Toyota LSD differential systems. Only the ones with clutches need the additive.

 

I believe the only ones that need the additive are TRD Sport models from 05-08 or 09.

 

TRD Offroad has the E-locker so LSD additive is not required. I like the Mobil 1 LS (use coupon online from advanceauto for best price)

 

eon: Yes, my bad it does say limited slip differential. What I need to know is how do I tell if my truck does have one?

 

You just answered your own question.

If there is a tag on the rear diff that says "LSD fluid only". then you need lsd fluid which contains an additive.
If the tag is gone and you have a button on your dash that says "LSD" or shows a car with some squigly lines....then you probably have an lsd rear end.

I wouldnt trust the manual as far as telling you it has lsd, because its probably covering a couple different models...and only "suggesting" that if you have lsd....to use lsd fluid.