What fluid goes in a limited slip differential?
The fluid that goes in a limited slip differential is a specialized gear oil designed to provide the necessary lubrication and friction characteristics for the differential's operation. This type of differential requires a specific fluid to ensure proper function and prevent premature wear or damage.
Understanding Limited Slip Differentials
A limited slip differential is a type of automotive differential that is designed to distribute power unequally between the two wheels on an axle. This is in contrast to a standard open differential, which allows the wheels to spin at different speeds, but distributes power equally.
The limited slip differential uses a series of clutch plates or a viscous coupling to limit the amount of speed difference between the two wheels. This allows for better traction and control, particularly in situations where one wheel may be on a slippery surface while the other has good traction.
Choosing the Right Fluid
The fluid used in a limited slip differential is a specialized gear oil that has been formulated to provide the necessary lubrication and friction characteristics for the differential's operation. This fluid is typically thicker and more viscous than standard motor oil, and it may also contain additives that help to maintain the proper friction levels between the clutch plates or viscous coupling.
It is important to use the correct fluid specified by the vehicle manufacturer, as using the wrong fluid can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Increased wear and tear on the differential components
- Reduced traction and handling performance
- Potential damage to the differential itself
The specific fluid required for a limited slip differential can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the type of differential being used. It is always best to consult the vehicle's owner's manual or a qualified automotive technician to determine the correct fluid to use.
Maintaining the Differential Fluid
In addition to using the correct fluid, it is also important to maintain the fluid level and change it at the recommended intervals. Over time, the fluid can break down and become contaminated, which can lead to a variety of problems.
Most vehicle manufacturers recommend changing the differential fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as specified in the owner's manual. Failure to maintain the fluid can lead to increased wear and tear on the differential components, and may even result in a complete failure of the differential.
What kind of oil do you use in a limited slip differential?
DIFFERENTIAL | LIMITED SLIP - What gear oil do you recommend for limited-slip differentials? Using non-synthetic 80W-90 GL-5 will produce optimum performance in our Dura Grip clutch-type units. Learn more about LSD oils, and drivetrain lubrication in general, by watching our “Tech Talks, Oils and Additives” video.
What happens if you put the wrong gear oil in your differential?
They found that whoever replaced the oil in the differential with the wrong viscosity was directly responsible for the damage caused to the front differential assembly and the four-wheel-drive (clutch) assembly.
What is the additive for limited slip differential?
Kendall® Limited-Slip Axle Additive Concentrate is a special additive used to modify the frictional characteristics of axle lubricants for use in limited-slip differentials. It helps to eliminate chatter in limited-slip differentials when added to non-limited-slip API GL-5 gear lubricants.
What happens if you put transmission fluid in differential?
In emergency situations, you can put transmission fluid in your differential, but beware of the lower degree of viscosity compared to differential fluid. Your vehicle will burn through it quickly, so change it out or replace it with the right fluid as soon as possible.
Is transmission fluid the same as rear differential fluid?
The differential fluid, also known as gear oil, is specifically formulated to lubricate and protect the gears and bearings within the differential housing. On the other hand, transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating and cooling the intricate components of your vehicle's transmission system.
What happens if you don't put limited slip additive?
If the frictional properties are not correct, abnormal clutch engagement and disengagement – called chatter – can occur. Chatter occurs when the clutches repeatedly alternate between slipping and sticking instead of smoothly slipping. It not only generates annoying noise and vibration, it causes premature wear.
What fluid should I put in my rear differential?
There are two types of differential fluid: mineral oil and synthetic differential fluid, with the latter offering better performance. The frequency of changing differential fluid depends on the manufacturer's recommendations, typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
Can I use regular gear oil in a limited slip differential?
A classic, clutch based limited slip differential almost always requires a special oil. Use regular gear oil and you will get clunks and all manner of noise and, eventually damage. Don't have a Mitsubishi but I did have an Isuzu and it clunked like mad when the dealer got it wrong.
How often do you change limited-slip differential fluid?
For a normal, daily driven, vehicles we advise that you change the differential oil every 50,000 miles. For vehicles that are hard worked, such as trucks that do a lot of heavy towing, we advise that you change the differential oil every 15,000 miles.
Does Lucas 75w90 have limited-slip additive?
Our formulation contains an embedded friction modifier for use in standard or limited slip differentials. Recommended by Lucas Oil for any application requiring SAE 75W-90 gear oil, whether in light duty trucks, SUVs, or commercial vehicles.
