Although, such replacements are not required as frequently as engine oil replacement is necessary. If you fail to make these regular replacements, it may result in the reduction of the lubrication properties of the high-pressure gear oil. This may further result in the faster wearing of the specialized hardened steel layer found on the gear teeth, which can damage the gears too early. The gears provide the required energy to the axles, which in turn spin the wheels in the correct manner at the right speed every time you hit the accelerator.
It is recommended to change the gear oil when you need to empty out the differential to undertake axle servicing and other similar maintenance work. However, it is advisable to consult the owner’s manual or the service instructions to check the recommended intervals at which to make these replacements. You need to understand that it is not advisable to choose any kind of oil to withstand the huge pressure created by the constant lashing of the gears. The chosen oil must be able to bear the shocks and the load that result due to the transferring of the engine’s horsepower and torque to the vehicle’s wheels. Until the 1970s, sperm whales contributed as a major element of these high pressure lubricants. However, since the banning of commercial whaling, the substances have been substituted with technically developed and modern elements.
The most important and foremost factor that determines the suitability of the lubricant is its viscosity, which is the proper weight of the oil. Another important consideration while choosing the replacement fluid is the G1 rating. It is recommended to follow the instructions provided in the manual to determine the correct G1 rating required for the oil. If you do not adhere to these instructions provided in the manual, you risk choosing incorrect gear oil, which can eventually lead to significant damages that result in expensive repairs or replacements.
A third important factor that determines the correct fluid to be used is the requirements of the limited slip also known as the traction sensory differential. When the differential is in the normal mode, the twist resulting while making a turn is applied to both the wheels even if one of the wheels may happen to be spinning in an icy surface. However, when the limited slip differential kicks in, the result is the redirection of the torque on the wheel that is available with more traction due to the loss of energy to the other wheel. However, when the vehicle is not provided with the correct fluids, the limited slip differential functionality is affected. Such loss of smooth functionality can result in spending huge amounts for repairs and rebuilding. Therefore, you must check if your automobile is available with LSD and you must always use the lubricant that comprises the right amount of friction modifiers specified for the specific LSD.
While replacing this fluid, you need to be aware that the oil gives out a particular odor, which you may not like. Often, the sulfur substances found in the gear oils smell like rotten eggs or worse depending on the total concentration. Therefore, it is recommended to wear clothes that can be thrown away after completing the task.
The first step to begin the replacement is to put your vehicle on the ramps or jack stands. You must then locate the differential draining button, which must be loosened and removed. While draining the lubricant, it is important to ensure you give adequate time to allow the entire fluid to be drained out. You must then replace the drain bolt and wipe any extra oil that may be remaining on the covering.
The next step is to find the drain fill bolt and remove the same. It is recommended to use a pump to slowly infuse the appropriate gear oil into the truck. You must continue infusing the oil up to the recommended level or until the lubricant begins dribbling out from the fill hole. After you replace your truck’s differential fluid, you must reinstall the fill hole securely and remove any excess lubricant from the cover.
