This video guide will show you how to change your differential fluid/ gear oil. Not only that but also clean the inside of the housing and check for damage.

CAUTION: If you have never jacked up your vehicle before, follow this guide.

Strumenti necessari

  • Hydraulic Floor Jack
  • Jack Stand
  • Oil Drain Pan
  • 3/8" Drive Ratchet
  • 1/2" Socket
  • Hammer
  • Razor Blade
  • Detailing Brush
  • Aerosol Brake Cleaner
  • Paper Towels
  • Black RTV Silicone

Procedura

Passo 1

  • Use a socket wrench or an air gun to remove the bolts from the differential cover
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  • Make sure to keep the metal tag with the gear ratio and axle type information
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Passo 2

  • Place a bucket under the differential
  • Use a hammer to tap the cover and let the fluid drain out
  • Then, remove the cover
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Passo 3

  • While the cover is off, inspect the ring gear, pinion gear, and spider gears for any damage or missing/broken teeth
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  • Make sure the vehicle is in neutral so you can spin the gears
  • Check for metal shavings or sludge at the bottom of the differential
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Passo 4

  • Use brake parts cleaner to clean the inside of the housing
  • Wipe it down with paper towels and let it dry
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Passo 5

  • Clean the cover with brake parts cleaner, both inside and outside
  • Make sure to remove any old RTV or gasket material from the mating surface
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Passo 6

  • Apply a bead of RTV sealant around the mating surface of the differential cover, making sure to go around each bolt hole
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  • Use a dry finger to spread the RTV evenly over the surface
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  • Let it sit for a minute to become tacky.

Passo 7

  • Align the cover with the differential housing and press it into place
  • Reinstall the bolts and the metal tag you removed earlier, tightening them in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure on the gasket
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Passo 8

  • After letting the RTV dry for a short time, remove the fill plug and fill the differential with gear oil until it starts to spill out of the fill hole
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  • Replace the fill plug and clean up any excess oil.

Fonte: iFixit