Changing LS Diff Fluid in 02 Explorer

[Oldwolf]

Getting ready to change the fluid in my 02 Exp with Limited Slip rear end.

I noticed that Mobil 1 already has the friction modifier in it. Does it have enough or should I go ahead and add the XL-3 friction modifier?

Also saw that Autozone has CRC friction modifier for LS diffs. Is this an OK product or should I stick with the Ford XL-3?

 

[Ken2]

Try the gear oil without additional friction modifier. After the fill, drive in slow figure-8 turns for a few minutes to work the new fluid into the clutches. If you have no shudder, you're good. If it shudders, add a part of a tube of any LSD additive at a time until it's smooth.

Limited slip differential friction modifier is needed only in clutch-type limited slip differentials. The additive is already in differential gear oils that state that they're suitable for LS differentials.

 

[unDummy]

When adding LSD additive, always use as little as possible. Definitely follow the directions above.

 

[Oldwolf]

I don't follow you. My differential has clutch packs and the manual says to use XL-3 Friction Modifier.

 

[OVERKILL]

Originally Posted By: Oldwolf
I don't follow you. My differential has clutch packs and the manual says to use XL-3 Friction Modifier.


If you use a fluid without a built-in FM, like the Motorcraft fluid. If you use something like the M1 fluid that already has it, you don't need it.

 

[unDummy]

Whats there to follow? If your gear oil has NO LSD additive, then you need it. Since the M1 has a dose of LSD additive already, you may not need it, or you may only need a partial dose.

 

[VK56VD]

Originally Posted By: unDummy
Whats there to follow? If your gear oil has NO LSD additive, then you need it. Since the M1 has a dose of LSD additive already, you may not need it, or you may only need a partial dose.


...depending on the chatter or lack of!

 

[Jason2007]

Use the M1 fluid w/LSD in it and you will be good to go.

 

[Oldwolf]

Originally Posted By: Jason2007
Use the M1 fluid w/LSD in it and you will be good to go.


That's what I'll do. Thanks.