Differential fluids

2002 FORD EXPLORER
234,992 MILES • 4.0L • V6 • AWD • AUTOMATIC
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TMCINTOSH11
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I was hoping someone could give me some info on differential fluid type for my SUV it is the XLT model. I think the front should be 80-90 and the rear 75-140, but I do not know if In need friction modifiers or limited slip type etc. I am not use to changing these I have always had front wheel drive vehicles. I cannot find any straight answers online and the dealership gave me a guess. Also, on the front differential is it possible to just use a hand pump to get get the old fluid out or do I have to take the front cover off?
Aug 18, 2017 at 6:03 PM
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STEVE W.
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Front is 2.7 pints ( fill to 3/8 inch below fill hole) 80-90W.
Rear is 5.5 pints ( fill to 1/4 inch below fill hole) 75-140W.

No modifiers needed as the AWD has open differentials.

It is best to pull both covers, that lets you look inside to see if there are worn/broken parts, and you can clean out any crud that is in the bottom of the case.

Transfer case takes 1.3 quarts of Mercon ATF.

Personally I would make sure that they are all synthetic. It does make them operate easier and if you are in an area that gets cold they lube better because they do not thicken up.
Aug 18, 2017 at 6:50 PM
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TMCINTOSH11
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Awesome, thank you so much!
Aug 18, 2017 at 6:55 PM
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STEVE W.
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No problem.
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Aug 19, 2017 at 12:04 AM