differential fluid level

[Nickson]

I have read a few posts referring to the rear differential fluid levels in new trucks, many of them referring to their diff's being one quart low. With a 10. 5 rear end in an 04, where should the fluid level be? If I remove the fill plug is there a hard and fast rule how this can be checked? Should fluid start to seep out the hole? Or is there another way to check its level? Thanks!

 

[Rosco]

Your right about numerous post's regarding diff levels. If you check you owners manual it will have the proper fill levels for each respective differential. However, from memory I think the MAX level for the 10. 5'' axle is 1/4 below the fill plug.

 

[Spooled-up]

If you can't see the level or feel it, take a 1/4" strip of paper and fold it into a 90 degree angle. put one edge down into the diff and the other parallel to the threads. you'll see the level on the paper

 

[klenger]

The rear diff on my truck has a fill line about 1/2" below the hole.

 

[t6_man]

Nickson, I'm not sure about a 10. 5, but my owner's manual for my '03 11. 5 states 1/4" below the fill hole, +/- 1/4". I do like Spooled-up does to check it; fold some cardboard. Mine also was about a quart low when I got it.

 

[sag2]

04's have a fill line stamped in the cover. It is a couple inches to the left of the hole.

 

[Dean Upson]

It wouldn't be much of a

Originally posted by sag2

04's have a fill line stamped in the cover. It is a couple inches to the left of the hole.

Might be a good idea for '03 owners to make a reference mark on their axle covers.



Dean