Hey guys. I was thinking about changing my differential fluid tomorrow for the first time (not the first time for the truck, but rather my first time doing it) and I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice. I wanted to know what is the best brand of oil to put in and what grade. Also wanted to make sure that there aren't any gaskets that I need to do this service. Finally, is this something that I can do in my driveway with minimal tools. I appreciate the help.

 

Usually a drain and fill plug, drain it all, and fill to the plug ..

what grade ? I am not sure, but a simple phone call to your dealer will answer all questions you just asked.

If you replace a gasket it's because you took the dif cover off. If you do that you dont need to remove the drain plug.

If I was changing the fluid i'd change the gasket and look at the gears, since it's full time 4 wheel drive, more use ...

so i'd check the teeth.

 

Pull the drain plug and the fill plug, let it fully drain for 10-15 minutes. Clean off the drain plug, there will be residue and metal shavings on it. Replace the plug and fill w/ the synthetic gear oil of your choice, I use mobile 1 75w/90 gear oil. Fill until you get a constant bead of oil coming out of the fill hole and then plug it up.

 

Manual calls for an 80 to 90 weight gear, 1.8 qts for each diff and I think 2.4 for the t/case.
I go heavier, using an 85W/140 weight for extra protection on our older gears.
Also as for a brand, Rover says use a synthetic, such as Royal Purple, Mobil 1, Lucas or one of those.
You will need to use a 1/2" ratchet with a 2" extension to remove the plugs