Differential oil change

[word302]

Fill/drain plug torque: I just use my calibrated torque wrist.

Fill/drain plug replacement: I've never heard of such a recommendation, unless the original was damaged and/or allowing a leak to occur (which is just common sense, anyway). Otherwise, they've been there for as long as I've owned the vehicle.

Yeah it’s a pipe plug. I’m not sure why you’d even think about replacing it unless it was damaged. Whoever gave the OP that advice doesn’t know what they’re talking about. As far as torque, it’s a pipe plug. If it doesn’t leak it’s tight enough.

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[flyer92]

Yeah it’s a pipe plug. I’m not sure why you’d even think about replacing it unless it was damaged. Whoever gave the OP that advice doesn’t know what they’re talking about. As far as torque, it’s a pipe plug. If it doesn’t leak it’s tight enough.

Yep...that was my thinking too. Last year, I unfortunately sold my 1980 CJ-5, and every drain plug was original to the Jeep. Even my dad's old MB had original plugs, and that Jeep had literally been to hell and back in WWII! Granted...some plugs were a bit leaky/seepy, but that's what teflon tape, paste, and other sealants are for.

The advice I received about the plugs is interesting, as even ASE-certified techs offer their own sketchy/anecdotal "advice." This is why we need to be cautious in accepting anything we see/hear on these forums. While most of it is good, there's no shortage of "experts" who dispense ill-conceived opinions that may/may not affect the performance and/or longevity of our beloved Jeeps.

 

[word302]

Yep...that was my thinking too. Last year, I unfortunately sold my 1980 CJ-5, and every drain plug was original to the Jeep. Even my dad's old MB had original plugs, and that Jeep had literally been to hell and back in WWII! Granted...some plugs were a bit leaky/seepy, but that's what teflon tape, paste, and other sealants are for.

The advice I received about the plugs is interesting, as even ASE-certified techs offer their own sketchy/anecdotal "advice." This is why we need to be cautious in accepting anything we see/hear on these forums. While most of it is good, there's no shortage of "experts" who dispense ill-conceived opinions that may/may not affect the performance and/or longevity of our beloved Jeeps.

Well in order to become an ASE certified tech you go through a 1-year training program. Don’t get me wrong, there are good mechanics out there but the certification doesn’t mean much. I’ve got more time wrenching on vehicles over the years then most of them will ever get before they decide to move on and do something else. If someone were to tell me the drain plug needed to be replaced when servicing the axle I’d love to ask them to explain why?

 

[blnewt]

Yep...that was my thinking too. Last year, I unfortunately sold my 1980 CJ-5, and every drain plug was original to the Jeep. Even my dad's old MB had original plugs, and that Jeep had literally been to hell and back in WWII! Granted...some plugs were a bit leaky/seepy, but that's what teflon tape, paste, and other sealants are for.

I always wrap my diff plugs w/ a couple wraps of yellow teflon tape, never a problem w/ that for me.
I am running the lighter weight M1 gear oil, but will be switching to the heavier weight next round.

 

[Rhinebeck01]

Reminder.......
Is it that time again.... check your maintenance schedule.

 

[The Fixer]

Gonna go out in a few minutes to do mine! Going with 75/140 front and rear. I changed the rear fluid at 15K because I have the M220 with Trak Lok (or whatever Jeep calls it ? ). So, I just rolled 30K this week, and will do both this time.

 

[Rhinebeck01]

Gonna go out in a few minutes to do mine! Going with 75/140 front and rear. I changed the rear fluid at 15K because I have the M220 with Trak Lok (or whatever Jeep calls it ? ). So, I just rolled 30K this week, and will do both this time.

Yes, do go with 75/140 front and rear..

In the last 2 days, I have done 7 diff fluid changes and 2 transfer case fluids for other people's JL's..

Today, I will do my JL's diffs and transfer case ...... will also do diff fluid on a gal's JT.

 

[blnewt]

Yes, do go with 75/140 front and rear..

In the last 2 days, I have done 7 diff fluid changes and 2 transfer case fluids for other people's JL's..

Today, I will do my JL's diffs and transfer case ...... will also do diff fluid on a gal's JT.

Hope they're at least keeping your fridge full of beer

 

[Tncdrew]

And one thing this old guy (many changes over the years), had never really considered before...

I just installed an ARB air locker in the front axle. The ARB instructions have you plug the fill hole once you reach the top upon filling. Then, rotate the differential slowly several revs. by turning the driveshaft. This makes sure your fresh oil has filled all the voids inside the carrier.
I had never done this before.... sure enough, she took a bit more when I pulled the plug back out!
With the reduced oil capacity of these next gen Dana housings, this is actually a worthy practice.
Don't you just love the smell of gear oil? ?

 

[Rhinebeck01]

Hope they're at least keeping your fridge full of beer

Don't drink.. but they pay cash for my work. 8-)

 

[roaniecowpony]

I just did the diff fluid changes front and rear when I potted my sensors. I had probably 600 ish miles on a new set of 4.88s. Valvoline synthetic 75-140. Didn't change my drain plugs or cover bolts. Not even the gasket. ? But I pushed in my fuses.

 

[Tncdrew]

I really like the style of cover gaskets being used on these JL axles. As others have said, with a light cleaning, and proper cover bolt torque, they should last for many changes.

 

[Rhinebeck01]

Ok, what's this on top of the black stool. ...Why is it a plus for your next bit of maintenance on your JL/JT?

 

[Tncdrew]

Hmmmmm...... stumped

 

[bumpit]

I use 75/140 weight front and rear of the cheap stuff. No change it usually a couple times a year no use putting expensive oil in it

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