How Level for Diff Fluid Change

[slimjj]

Just replaced my front and rear diff and transfer case oils. 4R wasn't perfectly level, but bubble was within the lines on the level sitting on the running boards (slightly lower in the rear). Rear diff fill plug didn't have any fluid come out when removed, but front diff and transfer case did have a bit run out when opened. I drained each and filled until fluid we coming out the fill hole. Seemed like it took the right amount of oil, but I couldn't measure down to a partial quart.

Should I make it absolutely dead level and top off? Or will I be within 5mm? Also, since I already torqued the fill plugs do I need new washers if I open the fill plugs to top off?

 

[07V8]

You're fine on both accounts. I reused the gaskets twice with not a drop of loss.

 

[ExCabSwap]

Just because your running boards weren't level doesn't mean your 4 runner wasn't level.. and just because your running boards are level doesn't mean that your 4 runner is level.

Your drivetrain is independent from your body. Just check that you're on level ground and you can check psi and tire wear to be more exact.

Do I think it matters if you're perfectly level? No. But close is close

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[slimjj]

Just because your running boards weren't level doesn't mean your 4 runner wasn't level.. and just because your running boards are level doesn't mean that your 4 runner is level.

Your drivetrain is independent from your body. Just check that you're on level ground and you can check psi and tire wear to be more exact.

Do I think it matters if you're perfectly level? No. But close is close

Sent from my LG-H830 using Tapatalk

The ground by my house is anything but level. My garage is as close as it gets, so I had to jack up the rear end to get it close. Not sure why the fluids in the front diff and transfer case wouldn't level out with jack stands under the rear axle, as they are attached to the frame, if the frame is level.

Maybe the original orientation of the running boards is lower in the front then in the rear? I'm about 0.5" higher in the front (net) after my lift. Anyone without a lift know how the running boards sit on level ground? Are they level as well?

Even on level ground if you have a bro stance or added forward rake, wouldn't the angle of the diffs be affected?

It will probably be fine, just trying to be cautious and document the situation in case others run into the same thing. I was just surprised to see fluid running out of the fill hole when I opened them up.

 

[blackoutt]

Body levelness doesn't matter, it's ground levelness that matters. It's not EXACT there's a wide window in which the gears will be okay. If you did it in a garage with a poured concrete floor, you're good enough.

 

[slimjj]

Body levelness doesn't matter, it's ground levelness that matters. It's not EXACT there's a wide window in which the gears will be okay. If you did it in a garage with a poured concrete floor, you're good enough.

Sounds good. Thanks for setting my mind at ease.