Changing Differnential Fluid

A

Andrew Larson

New member
So I plan on changing my differnential fluids tomorrow on my new to me 98 4runner. I bought valvoline 75w-90 gear oil to put in. I have been reading some write ups and it seems most people suggest using a synthetic. Is it suitable to put the valvoline in it? Or should I return it and get a synthetic. I looked for amsoil at my local o'reilly but they didnt have it so I just went with that valvoline.
 
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kball said:
What you have is fine. Be sure to pull the fill plug first before you drain it.
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Yup. I use Toyota conventional now, but I have used other brands in the past. I don't use synthetic anything. But many do. I am a conventional guy.
 
People recommend putting in synthetic because it can withstand the harsh wear and tear that the differential throws at it and for much longer. You can still use the regular stuff with no problems as stated.
 
I used Amsoil synthetic. FYI, my t-case and rear diff were easy to undo the drain/fill plugs. The front diff though...CANNOT get the drain plug off. Almost rounded out the plug...waiting to take it to a shop.
 
Don't worry about the front diff. Unless it was flooded out, the gear oil in the front diff doesn't wear out.

99% of your driving is done in 2wd so the front diff doesn't get used.

YMMV
 
I agree that you'll be fine with the Valvoline.

Here are just a couple tips that will make everything easier:
1. Spray the plugs with some penetrating oil a day or so before you try to tackle the job.
2. Make sure you use a 6 point socket on the drain/fill plugs so you don't run the risk of rounding them off.
3. A 1/2" breaker bar is your best bet for cracking the plugs free.
4. Always remove the fill plug first.
5. Pick up some low profile drain plugs from here: Magnetic Drain Plug | Toyota, Suzuki Samurai, and Jeep Off Road Parts. They are easier to remove and you don't have to worry about damaging them on the trail.
 
well i successfully changed the front differential and transfer case fluids. it was surprisingly easy. HOWEVER, the fill plug on the rear differential will not come off. I have been spraying it with PB blaster for the last two days and cannot get it off. I was cranking pretty hard and stripped the nut head a little bit, not severely. Nonetheless, I am afraid to keep cranking at it for fear of totally stripping it. Any suggestions on what to do next? I am considering taking it to a shop and see if they could just get the bolt off for me with better tools and then hopefully buy a new bolt from them. Any experience with this?
 
You can try a little heat from a torch, that will usually open them up, but keep soaking it with PB in the mean time. Sometimes it is best to take it to a shop, stuff like that is 100x easier to work with when it's elevated and you are on your feet, rather than rolling around on the ground.
 
Andrew Larson said:
well i successfully changed the front differential and transfer case fluids. it was surprisingly easy. HOWEVER, the fill plug on the rear differential will not come off. I have been spraying it with PB blaster for the last two days and cannot get it off. I was cranking pretty hard and stripped the nut head a little bit, not severely. Nonetheless, I am afraid to keep cranking at it for fear of totally stripping it. Any suggestions on what to do next? I am considering taking it to a shop and see if they could just get the bolt off for me with better tools and then hopefully buy a new bolt from them. Any experience with this?
Click to expand...

Same thing happen to me first time. Since it was damaged/stripped, and needed a new one, I used a pair of vice grips. I got them very, very tight. Smacked the vice grips with a rubber hammer and it finally came loose. A new plug is cheap and needed anyway. The factory ones are soft metal and this is common. Good luck!
 
Andrew Larson said:
Do you have to order new plugs? Or can you get them at most stores or auto shops?
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I got my new one from Toyota dealership. The replacement ones are harder. I have removed it twice with no problems. I am sure there are better ones like mentioned before, but the dealership one worked for me.
 
Andrew Larson said:
well i successfully changed the front differential and transfer case fluids. it was surprisingly easy. HOWEVER, the fill plug on the rear differential will not come off. I have been spraying it with PB blaster for the last two days and cannot get it off. I was cranking pretty hard and stripped the nut head a little bit, not severely. Nonetheless, I am afraid to keep cranking at it for fear of totally stripping it. Any suggestions on what to do next? I am considering taking it to a shop and see if they could just get the bolt off for me with better tools and then hopefully buy a new bolt from them. Any experience with this?
Click to expand...

You won't run the risk of stripping it if you use a 6 point socket.
 
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