2011 GMC 1500 rear diff fluid change?l

[Z45]

Quote

I didn't know if after-market fluid works ok for my truck.

OEM's typically buy lubes from lowest bid lubricant manufacturer custom packaged for them to sell at their dealer. They sell lubes to make more money, not because they need special lubes for their vehicles. 

Contrary to consumer perception, OEM lubes often are equal to the performance quality of the cheapest aftermarket oils on store shelves. Dealers can command higher prices simply because the consumer perceives it to be more appropriate for the application.

 

 

[diyer2]

I use off the shelf fluids due to cost for dealer fluids. I think fluids like Castrol and Valvoline are just as good as OEM or better.

I switched and used Amsoil trans fluid for our Hyundai because the dealer wanted $18 a quart for Hyundai trans fluid. Amsoil was cheaper and a better quality fluid IMO.

Same with the transfer case and diff fluid. I used Amsoil in the Hyundai.

Edited October 11, 2021 by diyer2

[Black02Silverado]

On 10/11/2021 at 8:59 AM, solidhead said:

I replaced fluid on my 2011 sierra 1500 wt 2 wheel drive at 120k mi for the first time.  I bought a new gasket and 3 bottles of AC-DELCO fluid from a dealership because I didn't know if after-market fluid works ok for my truck.  old fluid was totally black and burnt.  a shot glass full of metal powder was inside.  Gear surfaces looked all in good condition.  the truck has been a commuter vehicle with no towing or heavy load.  After the fluid change, I did a 500 mi long trip in one day with no issue.   I plan to do another fluid change at 180k mi or so.

When you get ready to change it out again, look into getting the AMSOIL Severe Gear in the Easy Packs.  Makes changing the differential a breeze.

Edited March 27, 2023 by Black02Silverado

[rouxster]

I know this is an old thread, but I have a quick question.  I'm late to the game on changing my 11 Silverado 2WD 8.6 in. differential fluid, but better late than never.  On the gmparts.com website, it shows a rubber gasket and a fiber type gasket.  Do I need that fiber gasket or just the rubber one?  Thanks.

 

Ryan

Edited March 22, 2023 by rouxster

[swathdiver]

On 3/22/2023 at 12:39 PM, rouxster said:

I know this is an old thread, but I have a quick question.  I'm late to the game on changing my 11 Silverado 2WD 8.6 in. differential fluid, but better late than never.  On the gmparts.com website, it shows a rubber gasket and a fiber type gasket.  Do I need that fiber gasket or just the rubber one?  Thanks.

 

Ryan

You really don't need to replace the gasket, the original rubber/metal gasket is reusable.