ok guys, I just want to ask this before I go and learn the hard way.

I am getting ready to change my gear oil in front and rear. I grabbed 7 qts becasue I wasnt sure which rearend I had. All I need to do is crack the cover to drain the fluid then remove it and clean any junk out right? Is there a magnet or anything to catch metal like in the tranny that I need to clean off?

Also the gaskets are reuseable right? Do I need to do anything to make the oil thin out before I drain it or just do it cold?

The front should take about 2.3 bottles, and the rear like 3 (depending on which rearend) right?

 

Also is there any little tips I should know before doing it? Should I hit the bolts with some PB blaster before trying so they dont snap off or anything like that?

 

The bolts should come easy, as they are only tightened to 30 ft/lbs. Also, fully remove the cover to clean it and to inspect for damage and excessive metal sludge. Be sure to add limited slip additive to the oil IF the oil doesn't already contain it. Also, the level needs to be around a 1/4 below the fill plug to allow for expansion. Otherwise you'll wipe out the seals.

 

you should have have the aam 11.5 it takes 4 qts. make sure you clean around the cover real good. or else you'll get some fine dirt in there. the gaskets are reuseable. the magnet is on the end of the fill plug.

 

Greg,

Bring the gear lube tomorrow and we'll change it out.

MikeyB

 

Right on! I will bring it with me. So do I need to grab another qt? I have 7 right now.

 

7 quarts should do it.

MikeyB

 

Not to argue but I do not think this is correct. I have talked to my brother who owns his own gear shop and has said to fill until it comes out and then put the plug in. There is no pressure that builds up to blow out seals.
In theory you can fill it much beyond the fill hole and be fine but that is not at all recommended.

 

I agree with rockcrawler304.

 

With the AME lockers do you really need additive.

 

You do not need additives. I the manuel it says not to put limited slip additives. Either way I just got some Valvoline synth gear oil so I should be a ok with what I got.

 

If the Valvoline Synpower bottle notes that it meets or exceeds GL-5 specification, you are ok.

 

A couple more tips

1) The covers on my 2005 each have a line, or mark, stamped into the cover that shows where the 'fill to' is supposed to be - faint, but clean with a rag and you may find yours has a similar mark. I use an allen wrench as a dipstick - hold it against the bottom of the drain plug with the short leg inside the hole and you can get a really clear indication of where the oil level is.

2) On the front I had trouble getting the tip on the 1 quart bottles into the open because of all the steering bars and dampers, etc that go right in front of the diff cover. Used a plastic tube that fit snugly over the tip on the bottle, and long enough to get the bottle where it could be held straight up and down. This is easier if you have a helper.

Hope this helps!
Bob

 

Drizz,
This is what I got.
http://www.valvoline.com/products/br...er/gear-oil/59

Bob,
Thanks for the tip.

 

That fluid will serve you well. Valvoline/Ashland makes good quality products.