Tranny + Differential fluid change

Getting ready to start towing with my 2013 TRD 4L 6-speed manual. I've never changed the tranny fluids nor differential fluids. Up until now this truck hasn't had a tough life.
Main question is: Been reading here and see lots of folks liking Redline MT-90. Use the same for both tranny and differentials? Plus, no indication in the manual nor on the diffs if this requires the LSD additive. So LSD, yes or no if using Redline MT-90?

 

Just did this yesterday, so I can probably be of some assistance.

I used redline MT-90ns for the transmission, same for the transfer case. The rear differential just used cheapo Walmart full syn

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

75w-90. Was planning on using the rest of the redline for the front differential, but I couldn’t get those pesky bolts off. Going to get more tools and attempt again next weekend..

 

Thanks!

 

Be careful removing the front diff drain plug. Very common to strip these! Make sure tool is fully inserted before applying force. Clean out the hex hole real good. I think it’s a 10mm hex socket.

 

Can confirm, it is a 10mm hex wrench.
I need to buy a socket insert (or 2 ft of lead pipe) as my 10mm hex wrench doesn’t give me enough torque to take off the bolts that Sasquatch put back on when he drained my front diff last.

 

Just use the correct viscosity, brand dont matter it's just marketing

 

I do the same - Supertech in the diffs and MT90 in the transmission. Change every 30K.

I like to use penetrating lube and shock the threads with a ball-peen hammer before I remove it. An impact driver comes in real handy on these as well.

By the way, OP, be prepared to be underwhelmed by the 6MT Taco's towing ability. And start saving up for that supercharger

 

Put some penetrating oil on it then go at it with a breaker bar. No sweat

Oh and always take off the fill plug first ALWAYS

 

The transmission calls for GL-4. That is the most crucial part. The rest are GL-5, except the transfer case can be either 4 or 5.

I never could understand spraying penetrating oil on the diff plugs....The threads are already submerged in the diff oil all the time. What is a penetrating oil going to do? That's if it can even get to the threads, because there is a crush washer meant to prevent liquids from passing thru in the way. Its almost like saying I need to lube the cam shaft...lets just spray oil on the valve cover. I must be an odd duck because I've never had to use penetrating oil to drain my diffs. I'm all ears to any valid arguments.

 

MT-90 is the best choice for your Transmission and T-case. The diffs need different oil (GL-5 Hypoid Gear oil). If you are planning on towing, I would use a synthetic 85-110 (Redline) for light towing, or 85-140W oil for heavy towing in the rear diff. The front is fine with 75-90. I swear by Redline, but for the diffs brand is less important than choosing synthetic, and changing it every 30,000 miles.

 

I always put Teflon tape on my plugs when I re-install them. I've never had a problem removing them later after doing this. Also, on the drain plug in the tranny, put some Teflon tape on it and DON'T over tighten it. They're easy to strip out since the case is aluminum.

 

I have never used teflon tape. Doesn't seem necessary to me.