Changing the rear LSD oil

[rogerneale]

Thanks to the guys for suggesting that I change the rear axle oil as a first try to end my annoying rear "grumbling" noise when setting off at roundabouts and T junctions and when truning tight corners at low speed. (did I mention that one?)

I spoke to my local mechanic and he's snowed under with MOT work so can't do it for two weeks.

I fancy having a go at it myself, can anyone offer any (practical) advice on the following:-

1. Recommended suppliers of correct LSD oil
2. Where are the bungs for emptying and filling the axle
3. Exactly how much oil do I need

I assume it's best to get the axle warmed up by driving it for a while before trying to empty it?

Cheers for any input.

 

[lacroupade]

Motor factors or motorists shop for Comma LSD 80w/90, or I put a website link on another thread where its £3.99/litre.
but here it is again...

http://www.g37.co.uk/comma-80w90-lsd--gear-oil-105-p.asp

Zippy will be along shortly no doubt with the link to the workshop manual which should tell you capacities and drain/fill points....I suspect thought that, like the gearbox, you might need a squeezy bottle with a plastic tube to suck out all the old stuff (as the drain plug probably isn't at bottom), but might be wrong.....I was once before...

 

[lacroupade]

since he's clearly asleep though, here it is...


http://bebrs.pie-dabas.net/Webs/Terrano/R20/fwd.pdf

 

[theron]

I used this stuff and it seems fine 4,000 miles later:

http://www.wilcodirect.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=137&products_id=1360

It's easy to do - plugs are obvious when you're under there (both a square socket drive):

Make sure you take the filler plug out first otherwise you may end up in the situation where you can get your drain plug out but not the filler plug !

 

[lacroupade]

Excellent - same stuff I bought Theron....are the drain plugs true drain plugs or do you need the squeezy bottle like you do on the gearbox to empty the dregs?

 

[JonathanM]

The drain plus is under the axle housing,just to one side of the centre. Filler plug quite clearly on diff pan visible from rear of vehicle.
I have a local place (Caldo oils) that sells most oils in 5 litre capacities for really good prices, I just used them when I was running the T2.

 

[Terranosaurus]

Excellent - same stuff I bought Theron....are the drain plugs true drain plugs or do you need the squeezy bottle like you do on the gearbox to empty the dregs?

I'm not sure you've found the gearbox oil drain as that is at the bottom, theres no need to mess around sucking the oil out.

 

[lacroupade]

I'm not sure you've found the gearbox oil drain as that is at the bottom, theres no need to mess around sucking the oil out.

Thanks T, was only asking as I didn't do the job myself!

ROGER according to the manual the diff holds 2.8 litres, so the job should cost you £12 plus your labour!.

 

[zippy656]

how do you change the oil in the front axle diff.

got a little drip from there so need to check levels and top up etc.

 

[Terranosaurus]

Exact same method only you'l probably need to remove the sump guard/bash plate to get at the filler. Can't remeber volume but its

80w/90 API GL5 between 1 and 2 litres so buy 2 huh.

 

[zippy656]

ok job for Louise then!

 

[TONUP]

I've been following this thread and I am still a bit confused, but I think the info is on PD-14 of the downloadable manual.

It shows an exploded view of the rear differential and the filler plug and drain plug are shown. It looks like they bolt into different castings.

Before I have a go at doing it would someone be kind enough to let me know that I am looking at the right thing?

Thanks

Alan

 

[zippy656]

I've been following this thread and I am still a bit confused, but I think the info is on PD-14 of the downloadable manual.

It shows an exploded view of the rear differential and the filler plug and drain plug are shown. It looks like they bolt into different castings.

Before I have a go at doing it would someone be kind enough to let me know that I am looking at the right thing?

Thanks

Alan

the fill is at the top of the cover. and the drain at the bottom of the case.

when you get under youll see, im sure.

print the page off and take it with you. might help.


im going to do the same with the front one, as got a little drip from it. maybe seal gone / going..



Zippy

 

[lacroupade]

Read my sig then just get on with it!

 

[Terranosaurus]

I've been following this thread and I am still a bit confused, but I think the info is on PD-14 of the downloadable manual.

It shows an exploded view of the rear differential and the filler plug and drain plug are shown. It looks like they bolt into different castings.

Before I have a go at doing it would someone be kind enough to let me know that I am looking at the right thing?

Thanks

Alan

Yes you are right they are in different bits.


For the rear diff....
The filler is in the axle casing, which is pressed steel and the drain is in the diff carrier which is cast iron - there is nothing to stop the oil flowing from one to the other though.


For the front diff....
The filler is cover plate, which is cast alloy and the drain is in the diff carrier which is cast iron - again there is nothing to stop the oil flowing from one to the other though.


Section Ma 38-39 shows it more clearly

 

[rogerneale]

Thanks

:bow
Thanks for all the help and advice, I'm definitely going to do it myself.

Just need to get the oil and get on with it.

I'll try and take a couple of photos while I'm under there.

Just referring to my original post.......Am I correct to assume, like other "oily" bits, it's best to open the drain when the axle is still warm from a run?

 

[Terranosaurus]

Yes - also best to heat up the oil (but container in bucket of warm water) to get it to flow more easily into diffs when filling.

 

[zippy656]

not the microwave then..

:lol:thumbs

 

[Jocky]

Before you drain the oil, make sure you can get the fill plug out first

Easy way to remove plugs is use a 1/2 inch ratchet, without any sockets on fits in the plugs nice.

Not nice if you drain oil and you cant refill:nenau

 

[lacroupade]

Before you drain the oil, make sure you can get the fill plug out first

Easy way to remove plugs is use a 1/2 inch ratchet, without any sockets on fits in the plugs nice.

Not nice if you drain oil and you cant refill:nenau

Mmmm blindingly obvious with 20-20 hindsight isn't it - good tip!