Rear Diff Fluid Change

[AgExplorer]

Just purchased an '03 ST XLS with 4.10 gears (axle code 42). Can I pump the fluid out of the housing with a pump to avoid having to deal with removing and reinstalling the cover?

I noticed that at 70 MPH it runs about 2500 rpm. Is this about right for the axle ratio with 255 70 16 tires?

Glad to be back on the forum after having been away for a few years. Looks like it has expanded considerably. Thanks for the help.

 

[gmanpaint]

You can pump it out if you can get a tube to reach the bottom of the diff. Personally, I wouldn't do it that way. I like to clean out the catch tray and inspect for particles. It's not a hard job to do and if you use RTV sealant your only out a few $$.

 

[techieman33]

X2

 

[Clusterpup]

It would be more work to pump the oil out then just removing the cover.

 

[AgExplorer]

Thanks for the recommendations. Looks like I'll be removing the rear cover.

 

[600remguy]

Then swing up and you can do mine. Oh, did I mention the seals I need too?

 

[JohnnyO]

I haven't tried one myself, but I'm told that Lube Locker diff cover gaskets are good and don't leak.

 

[bdmaash]

I had to do an axle seals also. Plan on leaving the truck alone for a few hours before filling up diff, after the silicone.
I left it overnight before the refill, almost took 3 quarts.

The cover is thick, so it won't flex and silicone seal works well.