I have had my 4Runner about 2 weeks now, I am dying to change out some of the fluids because I just don't know for sure when they were changed. I am planning to start with the diffs and transfer case. My mechanic neighbor is going to pretty much do the work I am just going to see how to do it right.

My plan is to use Amsoil Synthetic gear oil, it calls for 80-90w but I see many use the severe gear 75w-90, is there much difference? Also, anything else I need while doing it? I thought I might as well grease the driveshaft as well.

Anything else I may be missing before I get started? Probably going to do it this weekend or the next.

Thanks a bunch,
Maxil

As I recall I used the 75-90 in both diffs also.
You may want to spray down the front diff fill and drain plug with some PB Blaster. These were really difficult to remove when I did them. I actually had to buy a new drain plug because I striped it.

I agree with you. It's a really good idea to change all the fluids out if you don't have any records. But I would do EVERYTHING!!! All the fluids, oil, grease all the zerk fittings, even check plugs, wires, air filter, MAF sensor, the whole lot. Get it done and make a record. Toyota owners are blessed with a solid vehicle. We just need to do all the necessary maintenance. You will have peace of mind knowing that everything is up to date on your rig.

Old one...


New and old...


Here is a great maintenance link.
4Runners.org - Maintain it. Mod it.
Take a few days and get to know your ride. It'll be well worth it.

I appreciate the help, the oil was just changed, and plugs and wires are good. I have a K&N Cold air intake and plan to clean it out in a few weeks followed shortly by a MAF cleaning. It won't be too long before I change the transmission fluid, though it looks good right now.

Thanks,
Maxil

You can use the Severe Gear 75W90 in both diffs and the t-case. Word to the wise... take the fill plug out 1st because if you drain it and then find that the fill plug is siezed and you can't get it out, at least you won't be stuck w/o a vehicle. The diffs and the t-case fluid changes are IMO the easiest of all the maintenance to do on a 4runner (or any vehicle). Get a hand pump for a few dollars, drain, and fill it back up until it starts coming out of the fill hole (on all 3 units). Very simple if you want to save the $$ and DIY.

Thanks for the advice, I am meeting the Amsoil dealer today to get 5 quarts of 80w 90 gear oil and hand pump. Should I get the grease to do the driveshaft from him as well or just auto zone stuff?

Thanks again,

Maxil

If the Amsoil grease is reasonable, then I would buy it. But if it's ultra expensive like all the rest of their products then I would just go with vatozone grease.

Maxil

Also check that your breather caps are not blocked ;)

Thanks, I probably should do that breather mod due to its low price as well. Not that I intend to do a ton of off road but I would rather be safe than sorry, especially considering those things are like $6 or so.

Maxil

Okay, I got the gear oil and pump so far. I went to Auto zone to get the washers and gaskets, and they said try Carquest, they don't have a listing for them and asked if I could take it off and bring one in. That is not exactly what I had in mind, I don't want to leave myself stranded.

Do I need to go to the dealership or are there part numbers I can use to get these washers and gaskets?

Thanks a bunch,
Maxil

anyone used the advance auto brand? coastal...i imagine it can't be too bad