Rear Diff Fluid Change

[music]

Just curious. I haven't yet changed the rear diff fluid in my truck, and had it done at the shop on my previous truck. Is there a reason for not having a drain plug? I can see how it may be a good idea to inspect in there during the change, so maybe that's a reason, but a drain plug sure would make it fast and easy.

[1990ss]

I've got a drain plug on my '08 14 bolt, and my '01 10 bolt rear ends.....maybe you just missed it???

[music]

I've got a drain plug on my '08 14 bolt, and my '01 10 bolt rear ends.....maybe you just missed it???

 

I just looked again to be sure... but all I see is a fill plug?

[2COR517]

I'm sure the "reason" is to reduce manufacturing costs, and eliminate one more potential leak. If you want to change your diff oil frequently, and not deal with the cover, then just drill and tap a hole for a plug.

[2COR517]

I've got a drain plug on my '08 14 bolt, and my '01 10 bolt rear ends.....maybe you just missed it???

 

Mind posting a pic of that? Would be good to see where they are for those of us that would like to add one.

[Starrman]

or just buy an aftermarket cover that has one. Plus they have models with fins to help dissipate heat and/or hold more fluid

[Pilot12]

I'm sure the "reason" is to reduce manufacturing costs, and eliminate one more potential leak. If you want to change your diff oil frequently, and not deal with the cover, then just drill and tap a hole for a plug.

 

 

2008 Siverado. Hope the upload works.

[1990ss]

'08 14 bolt

 

 

 

 

'01 10 bolt

 

[2COR517]

Thanks, that's cool.

[hockeypro1411]

If you install one remember the golden rule. NEVER NEVER NEVER remove the drain plug before removing the fill plug.

 

Why is that? Just for better flow?

[1990ss]

If you install one remember the golden rule. NEVER NEVER NEVER remove the drain plug before removing the fill plug.

 

VERY TRUE! That almost bit me in the ass one time. I pulled the diff. cover off an old '83 S10 one time before removing the fill plug and rounded off the edges of the plug trying to get it out. I had to end up drilling out the fill plug. I was getting worried that I would never get that thing out of there. Lesson learned.

[2COR517]

If you install one remember the golden rule. NEVER NEVER NEVER remove the drain plug before removing the fill plug.

 

Very good advice. Should use this logic anytime you changing fluids, especially diffs and transfer cases. Make sure you can get the new in before you take the old out.

[brims]

My 08 10 bolt has one, but it's in the cover (MagHytec). Which has now stopped leaking thanks to the Permatex Gear Oil RTV.

[Matt_]

My 05 10 bolt didn't have that. Both OBS 14 bolts I had didnt have that. And my 08 10 bolt doesnt have that....

 

Must be lucky to get an axle with a drain plug

 

I'm a big fan of throwing away the stock cover though and installing an aftermarket one with increased fluid capacity and a drain plug.

[WilliamBos]

Mine has NO plug. How much money did that really save????

 

http://www.gm-trucks.com/resources/how-to/...-your-half-ton/