Davenlei

iTrader: (1)

Ok, so I opened the fill plugs of my differentials on a 2008 GX470 and was ready to do the fluid change to Mobil 1 LS 75W-90 Full Synthetic. I stuck my finger in the fill hole expecting my finger to come out dark but instead the gear oil came out golden colored and viscous. There was no burnt smell and it had the gear oil smell that good oil has.

So with that I put the fill plugs back on and started wondering if I need to change it or not? The GX has never towed anything and has been driven normally (my wife's car) so it does not see any abuse or extreme conditions.

I am wondering, do I just keep the existing oil in there and check again at 100K or 110K like the Lexus service interval says (check Diff and Transfer case oil and change if needed)?

Another question is since our differentials and transfer case is not limited slip, is there any concern about using the Mobil 1 75W-90 with the Limited slip additives in it? It says it is safe for both LS and non LS and I cannot find Mobil 1 Syn 7wW-90 around here without the LS additive.

Also, is there an easy way to check the trans fluid condition without dumping out all the old fluid?

Thanks Guys!

470SNC

If you're at 93k miles and you already bought the oil, just do it anyway, youre halfway there anyway

IanB2

Change it anyways, preventative maintenance.

Davenlei

iTrader: (1)

Yea, I was thinking that but I am lazy. I will change it since I know it will sit on my mind.

Should I have any concern about using the oil with LS additive in it? Will the friction modifiers wear anything out faster? Reading all the posts seems like it is a 'Not a problem' answer but want to know if there is any new information since those posts were made.

I will move the Transmission question to it's own thread.

470SNC

I doubt the additive will cause any problems

Johnny Rad

I replaced mine at 30k almost 3 years ago and am strongly considering skipping it at the 60k.

As I recall, the 30k interval was recommended for hard use but if did it anyhow. I don't tow and I don't go extreme 4wheeling.

Maybe do it at 75k or 90k.