Differential Temperature

[RideSlow2004]

A. What is the operating temp for the differential?



B. How do you install a temp sensor there?



(I know the OTR rigs have them... )



C. Is there a difference for front and rear?

 

[Wingate]

The easiest way to install a temp sensor is to replace the factory differential cover with an aftermarket piece such as Mag HyTec. The have increased capacity, threaded ports for thermocouples, magnetic fill and drain plugs, dipstick, and keep the gear lube significantly cooler.

As for operating temp, that will vary greatly with load on differential, speed of differential, ambient temperature, quality capacity and weight of oil... etc...

I shot my differential with a temp gun on a hot day while pulling a trailer. Seems like I hit245-255 degrees...

Thants when I ordered my Mag Hytec covers for both front and rear.

 

[RideSlow2004]

That is probably the smart way to go. When I am solo, I have no qualms about setting the cruise control at 85 mph. Seems to get about the same fuel mileage, 16 to 17, hand calc. Higher speed does generate more heat.



Thanks. I will put those on the to do list.

 

[TCDiesel]

General running temp 130*/160* @ 40*-80* ambient,when Pulling at highway speeds you may hit 250* general running Highway 180*-210* ,I have Never seen My axle temp gage show above 250* PLM Cover.

 

[barryg41]

My SPA's alarm at 275F. Never been there. I use syn oil with Hytec covers. You need to make sure a after market cover reads the temp as it comes off the top of the cover. That is where the oil is spinning off the gear. The Mag Hytec probe is located to read the temp as it comes off the gear.



I do know that it takes 250 miles to fully line out pulling my 5ver thru Mississippi hills at 70mph.



I have a 2WD, I don't know about the fronts Diff.

 

[RideSlow2004]

Good info, folks, thanks.