Posts Tagged: gear oil viscosity
Differential Fluid Explained: The Key to Long Drivetrain Life
What Differential Fluid Does Inside Your Vehicle Quick Summary Differential fluid is one of the most overlooked maintenance items I see, yet it’s critical to drivetrain survival. Differential fluid—often called gear oil—lubricates gears, bearings, and clutch packs inside the differential. It prevents metal-to-metal contact, reduces heat, and ensures smooth power delivery to the wheels. Depending on driving conditions and the type of gear oil used, it should typically be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Ignore it, and you risk noisy gears, overheating, premature wear, and eventually a very expensive … Read More
Gear Oil vs Motor Oil: What’s the Difference?
Gear Oil Explained: How It’s Different Than Motor Oil and How to Choose the Right Oil Quick Summary After years of working on differentials and drivetrains, I can tell you this: gear oil is not motor oil, and confusing the two is one of the fastest ways to destroy expensive components. Gear oil is designed for extreme pressure and sliding gear contact, not combustion. Choosing the right gear oil viscosity, API rating (GL-4 vs GL-5), and differential type is critical. Get it right, and your gears can last the life … Read More