Hey guys

My truck is almost never in 4X4, so 95% of the driving is rear wheel drive. I am going to get the rear differential fluid changed, but if I never really use 4X4, thus the front, will the fluid break down as well, or does it just sit there? Do I really need to do the front differential right now?

I have 84000 KILOmeters on it. Not sure what that is in miles. Both front and back differential fluid was change at 40000 KILOmeters.

 

anyone? slow morning today!

 

hate to keep bumping this, but I don't want to get hosed when I go to get the fluids changed again. They cost about 80-100 bux per diff.

 

You know I discussed this with a couple ppl off the forum including my dad and we came to the conclusion that its probably not even going to hurt anything because with out the transfer case engaged or the hubs the front differential never turns. The little bit it turns when you use it never adds up to the miles you put on the rear. With that said, I would almost not be scared to skip the front differential, but the ultimate decision is yours. Just MO

 

thanks lightening bolt. I pretty much suspected the same thing, but was not 100% sure if the front diff would be used when not in 4X4

 

I'd always recommend going by the owners manual first, but i don't remember what it says.

Personally, I would change just the rear. That goes double if they used synthetic in front, which I believe is factory fill for the rear. The thing to worry about is water. If you've had any chance of having the diff submerged at all, change it.

I would guess most people never get their diff fluids changed...

 

I forgot to say I am just sick of fluid boys trying to rip me off. Last time I was in, they claimed both my diff fluid was dirty, and my transfer case fluid was low and sticky. When I asked how they could tell my transfer case fluid was low and sticky when the skid plates were in the way, they changed the subject. (The whole skid plate in the way thing I just pulled out of my rear)

 

Does he have locking hubs? If he doesnt, then the diff is turning all the time and has the same amount of miles on the flud (not under load though).

 

Good point, I didnt even think about that, yeah if it has been submerged I would more than likely get it changed.

Most do it themselves with out the worry of labor costs, I guess. That front one can be a PITA to get back together. I am not sure why no one has commented... I missed it the first time.

 

Nope, never been submerged or anything like that. It is my daily city driver. No major towing since the last fluid change. I also check daily for leaks under my truck both at work and home. Both parking spaces are underground and on clean concrete. No leaks ever noticed.