Changing Differential Fluid Of A Vehicle By Otto Wortman
The differential, in a vehicle, is a gearbox that enables different wheels to turn in various rates. It contains many moving gear wheels which facilitate its functionality. There is usually a lot of friction between the teeth of the moving parts. This causes production of heat and wearing of the surfaces. All these things can lead to damage.
So, it is important to have a way through which you can easy the friction between those parts. The best way to do that is by utilizing differential fluid. This is oil that is used to lubricate the gearbox in every vehicle. If it leaks or burns off and is not replaced, the gears can overheat, lock up or break.
There are many different types of this differential fluid available in the market. Each vehicle manufacturer recommends a specific type. Therefore, it is important that you know what your vehicle needs, before carrying out an oil change.
Gear oil falls in the category of motor oils. The only different is that it is designed to provide better lubrication for gears in the differential of a vehicle. It is thicker than engine oil. High viscosity ensures that it penetrates the inner parts while at the same time sticking to the surfaces, hence completely coating the gears. This ensures optimum performance and easy shifting.
These oils are classified into different categories by the Petroleum Institute. The ratings are usually different. So, you should not interchange the oils. This is because they vary in viscosity and other properties. Therefore, ensure that you use the type that is recommended for your vehicle.
The ratings range from GL-1 to GL-6. Each of them is meant for a specific type of operating condition. GL-1 is the basic type that is used for light operating situations and for a specific set of gear setups. On the other hand, API GL-6 is used for extreme shocks, heavy and rough conditions.
If you own a vehicle, it is important that you change this fluid, regularly. To know the right intervals at which to do this, you can check the vehicle manual or contact the manufacturer. Although it is an
important vehicle servicing aspect, most people overlook it and only act when it is too late. Therefore, it is important that you remember to do it, especially if your vehicle is an off-road, four wheel drive.
Changing this fluid is not a difficult task. It can be performed by anyone. So, you do not have to source the services of a mechanic. Here are some few tips on how to do it.
You should start by parking the truck on level ground. This can be on flat ground or in the jack stands. Locate the differential of your vehicle. This can be quite tricky if you have not done it before. If that is that case, just get the manual and see where it is located.
The location varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It usually looks like a round case that is connected to the driveshaft of the vehicle. You can look at the car manual if you are not sure.
Get the drain pan and put it in place. Then open the drain plug. You can do that using your socket wrench. Allow the fluid to completely drain into the pan. When that is done, replace the plug.
Remove the bolt that closes the fill hole. It is mostly located on the right side of the differential case. You should use a socket wrench to do this. Attach the handgun to the container of new differential fluid. Apply the tube of grease into the hand pump with the nozzle facing in front.
Insert the plastic tube from the pump into the hole and pump the oil into the transfer case until it is completely full. Different vehicles require varied amounts of fluid. When you are through with that, replace the filler bolt and lower the vehicle from the jack.
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