My truck (RWD 3.0L Auto) has 156K miles and the rear axle lubricant has probably never been changed. I attempted it this morning, but couldn't budge the filler plug. Do you folks recommend I get it changed. I'm thinking about taking it in to the local Ford place. I know the last owner towed a small boat with it. I figured it might be a good idea to change it.
Thanks,
Jim

Get a little piece of pipe to help get leverage on the ratchet to break it loose

Also make sure you are going the right direction

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I'd just drain it by removing the cover. To get the filler plug out, first make sure it's good and clean, be sure you are on the right "bolt", and apply some leverage.

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156K miles is a long time to go with the same fluids, change it.

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-3" Doetsch Spindle Lift


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Got the plug loose - it just needed to know I meant it! Removed the cover and drained the fluid. Tomorrow I'll put the cover back on with some ultra-blue gasket RTV and refill with Valvoline 75W90 gear lubricant. That should be that for the rest of the truck's life.

Why does that stuff stink so bad!?!?!?

Jim

in my experience in heavy equipment the older the fluid is the more it smells so i'd guess it's applies here also

The strange thing is, the drained oil didn't smell much. It's the new stuff that's really bad!

Near as I can tell, this diff is NOT a limited slip model. Here's what the metal tag on the diff reads:

S368S
3 73 75 8H10

Sound right?

Jim

the axle code is s368s
373 gear ratio...{ a 3L73 would be the limit slip}
75 is a 7.5 ring gear

i'm thinking the 8h10 is the plant and month made?

I think you're correct. My axle code on the door pillar sticker is 86. I found a chart posted that states this is a "regular", not a Limited Slip differential, so I think I've got the fluid I need and I don't need a friction modifier.

Jim

Done!