What do you need to know about differential fluid?
Differentials need differential fluid or commonly known as gear oil to lubricate and cool down its internal bearings and gears. Make it a habit to check its level and for any signs of leaks. To check your differential fluid, you need to do the following steps. Find the differential fill plug and loosen it.
Where can I dispose of old differential fluid?
Place the container beneath the drain bolt so the fluid will pour into the container once you remove it. Used differential fluid will need to be brought to a certified recycling location. Do not mix old differential fluid with oil or gasoline. Remove the drain bolt.
What kind of oil is used in a differential?
One of these types of fluids is the differential oil, also commonly known as gear oil, which is used to lubricate manual transmissions and differentials.
What kind of additives are used in differential fluid?
There are other methods so you can find the one that suits you the best. Additives used in differential fluid define its general category. There are 3 main categories: R&O, antiscuff, and compounded. R&O (rust and oxidation inhibited) lubricants secure chemical stability and corrosion protection.
What type of differential fluid should I use?
Designations for differential fluid may vary between different countries, though in the US the American Petroleum Institute (API) refers to them by gear lubricant (GL) numbers. Most differentials tend to use GL-4 or GL-5 differential fluid.
How often should I Change my differential fluid?
Most manufacturers recommend that the differential fluid be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. It is a messy job, and should be done by a licensed mechanic. The fluid will have to be disposed of properly, you may need a new gasket, and the parts inside the differential housing will need…
Is there a way to check differential fluid?
Part 1 of 2: Checking the fluid Locate the differential fill plug. Generally, the fill plug is located on the differential or the differential front cover. Loosen the differential fill plug. Put an oil drain pan under the differential and loosen the differential fill plug with the appropriate tool. Remove the differential fill plug. Remove the differential fill plug.
Do I need to replace my differential fluid?
The fluid of the rear differential won’t need to be changed as frequently as the front differential fluid. The recommendation of some car manufacturers is that you change your rear differential fluid every 30,000 miles or so. However, there are a lot of car manufacturers that say you can wait until 50,000 miles before you change this fluid.