Need Guidance: Differential Fluid Type

[DaveK22]

I tried a search but couldn't find answer.

I need to bring my 04 SR5 (107k miles) to my local mehanic for a repair. Since I have it in, I was thinking about having differntial fluids changed...as pretty sure previous owner never did.

Is it critical to have to use Toyota fluid? If not, can someone recommend a good alternative that would be readily available for a local garage?

Thanks in advance.

 

[ghostridr]

The below is what I used on my rear/front diffs and transfer case. 6-7qts

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/143156-differential-oil-type-dead-horse.html

 

[WXman]

There are a hundred threads on this, but the bottom line is with the gear sets you do not have to use Toyota fluid. You also do not have to use over-priced "name brand" synthetic fluid. Gear sets are very very happy with regular "dino" oil in the differentials. I learned the hard way that the $3/quart stuff at Walmart works better than the $20/quart "name brand" stuff at the auto parts store.

The thing you DO need to do is use the proper viscosity. And that info is in the owners manual.

 

[Gatafly]

I use nothing but Amsoil in my rig and use their gear oil for the differentials. Dino oil works good also, byt living in MN i notice a difference when it gets cold out, it is smoother and rolls easier.

 

[DaveK22]

There are a hundred threads on this, but the bottom line is with the gear sets you do not have to use Toyota fluid. You also do not have to use over-priced "name brand" synthetic fluid. Gear sets are very very happy with regular "dino" oil in the differentials. I learned the hard way that the $3/quart stuff at Walmart works better than the $20/quart "name brand" stuff at the auto parts store.

The thing you DO need to do is use the proper viscosity. And that info is in the owners manual.

Great advice. Think I'll do just that.