Final Drive drain & fill plugs

[amazngrace]

I was recently servicing a new-to-me Ford Explorer and when I was checking around on
the Explorations forum, I was reminded of something that would be of  great use to
anyone doing final drive oil. (and, yes, I need the occasional reminder)

"Never remove the drain plug first"   If you drain and then can't get the fill plug off,
you are "HAD" big time!

..ED

[Chrisj CMA]

This is a very unecessary precaution.  The easiest way to service the final drive is when its OFF the bike.  That way you dont get oil all over the tire and exhaust.  if you drain it well and pour in exactly 150cc you dont have to see it overflow to know you have the RIGHT amount.

Cheers

[amazngrace]

Thanks Chris, That is my backup plan if I can't get the fill plug out.

I will generally change the fluid when I flush the brake and clutch lines, but
I've been thinking of adding the spline/pinion/ etc. check and service to the
fluid interval.

..ED

[Chrisj CMA]

Thanks Chris, That is my backup plan if I can't get the fill plug out.

I will generally change the fluid when I flush the brake and clutch lines, but
I've been thinking of adding the spline/pinion/ etc. check and service to the
fluid interval.

..ED

"back-up plan"  Ive been doing this for 10 years now and I can tell you by far its a better plan A to use synthetic hypoid gear oil, it will last 10,000 miles or the life of your tire whichever you use as a rear service interval.  Everytime the back wheel comes off you should R/R the drive shaft for lube.........so..........change the final drive oil every time you lube the drive shaft.........

[RP#62]

I can also tell you that you shouldn't put the oil in until AFTER you've put the drain plug back on.  I've tried it both ways and putting the drain plug in first worked out much better.
-RP

[Chrisj CMA]

I can also tell you that you shouldn't put the oil in until AFTER you've put the drain plug back on.  I've tried it both ways and putting the drain plug in first worked out much better.
-RP

LOL.........well, I guess thats right. 

[Jess from VA]

This is a very unecessary precaution.  The easiest way to service the final drive is when its OFF the bike.  That way you dont get oil all over the tire and exhaust.  if you drain it well and pour in exactly 150cc you dont have to see it overflow to know you have the RIGHT amount.

Cheers

Except when the only 150cc measuring cup you have is the wife's baking Pyrex, and she smacks you with the rubber mallet.  I only spill a few drips with my method (if any), and avoid the rubber mallet.   

[gordonv]

Local Princess Auto (Harbor Freight) has a large syringe, comes on sale for $.99 sometimes, I use mine for topping off the water in my battery. Goes right in the hole, not a spilled drop.

Will buy another for oil. Works in any direction and can pre-measure.

[9Ball]

I change the gear oil every other oil change....cheap, easy, and quick.

YMMV