Ok, Its time to change out the diff fluid so I need some educated advise.

1) Its a 4X4 should I change the fluids in both diff's (60k miles)
2) what oil would the group recommend to get best lubrication and life?
3) Should I buy a gasket for the diff(s) or would RTV suffice?
4) If when I get in to the pumpkin, I find that the infamous clip is broken, should I stop right there and call a tow? or will I be able to put the diff back together and limp to a dealer?
5) Anything else you would suggest, outside of paying $100 for the change at a dealership?

I know these are pretty remedial questions, and I'm relatively mechanically inclined, but y'all have me paranoid after seeing some of the previous posts........

Thanks
227

 

Sorry about the paranoia, but unfortunately...........it's well founded.
You can drive to the dealers no problem if you find the c clips in your oil change and NO OTHER DAMAGE and RTV will suffice.
The oil types are your choice, synthetics being the way to go, but the oil weights are very important.
Also, remember to add the LSD additive when changing the rear fluids.
The front diff on a 4x4 does turn when it's in 2wd but it's not under load. However I would personally change the oil in the front as well.
If the LSD is goosed, try an Auburn or a Detroit True Trac. That's the way I'll be going hopefully soon along with 4:56 gears.
Hope this helps.
Al.

 

If you decide to use a synthetic or even dino oil, read the back very carefully. A lot of them already have an LSD additive in them. Royal Purple for example as well as Lucas.