When it comes to car maintenance, checking and topping off your differential fluid is a key part of the process. Differential fluid helps to distribute power between the axles, preventing them from locking up and potentially causing a loss of control. If you’re not sure when to check your differential fluid or how to do it, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your car is running at its best and that you don’t encounter any unforeseen problems down the road.
What is Rear Differential Fluid?
Rear differential fluid is a type of automotive lubricant that helps to reduce the amount of friction between the rear axle and the differential. It is usually added as a supplement to regular engine oil, and is typically replaced every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. Rear differential fluid should be coloured pink or red and have a specific viscosity. If it appears milky or has an unpleasant smell, it may be contaminated and should be replaced.
How do you check Rear Differential Fluid?
The differential is a essential component of your car’s drive train. It allows the rear wheels to rotate at a different speed than the front wheels and helps the car stay in line while driving. The differential fluid keeps the gears meshing and working properly.
To check differential fluid, you will need to remove the cover on the rear differential. Next, use a syringe to fill the differential with oil. Replace the cover and torque it down to secure it. Drive your car around a few circles to make sure everything works correctly. If there are any problems with your gearbox, your differential may be affected too.
What to do if Rear Differential Fluid is low
If your rear differential fluid is low, there are several things you can do to fix the problem. Some of these include replacing the fluid, adding fluid, or changing the gearbox oil.
To replace the differential fluid, first shut off the engine and remove the rear axle housing. Next, unscrew and remove the two bolts that hold down the differential cover. Finally, pull out the differential cover and replace the differential fluid. Make sure to put new McMaster-Carr part number 81149502 on both covers when reassembling them.
If adding fluid doesn’t solve the problem, it might be time to change your gearbox oil. To do this, first remove the rear axle housing. Next, unscrew and remove both bolts that hold down the gearbox cover. Finally, pull out the gearbox cover and replace the oil with a new McMaster-Carr part number 81149021.