1985 Differential Fluid Capacity

[65TripleBlack]

Hello:

I own a 1985 with 700R4 transmission, so, I believe that it has a Dana model 36 differential. I have not been able to find the fluid capacity of the diff. in either the owners' manual, or the Shop Manual. Can anybody here help me with this.
Thanks in advance.

Joe

 

[Ken]

I can't find an exact quantity, but the commonly accepted method for filling the differential is to fill it until the lube runs out the fill plug. Be sure to add the friction modifier first, if you're filling an empty case.

 

[65TripleBlack]

Thanks for the reply, Ken. Yes, I know that, but I need the actual fluid capacity of the 36 vs the 44. I can measure them, but wanted to ask before going through the PITA empirical process.

Joe

 

[Hrtbeat1]

It's just shy of 2 1/2 qts. . The manual calls for 80W90, I've had good results with Mobil1 75W90 synthetic. I asked the guy that rebuilt my diff (pinion bearing) and he says he runs Mobil1 in everything ... except his race car ... it gets Royal Purple. That made me feel good as I had just picked up two qts.

Gordon Killebrew and others (I think C4C5Specialist said so also) recommed using two of the 4 oz bottles of limited slip lube. GM part number 1052358. Stan (my diff guy) says to use the real GM stuff ... around $8 at the dealer. He says the others that claim to meet OEM specs just don't work as well.

 

[Ken]

As far as I can tell, the 36 as well as the 44 both hold 4.8 pints.

 

[Hrtbeat1]

As far as I can tell, the 36 as well as the 44 both hold 4.8 pints.

There's only a couple of ounces difference between the two. From what I can tell. I've got both.

 

[tigmaned]

o.k. now whats the best way to get to the filler nut if i don't have a lift? can it be done on jack stands??

thankS!

 

[Ken]

For the rear end you could simply crawl under the car to reach it, but jack stands will help gain you more clearance.

 

[Hrtbeat1]

o.k. now whats the best way to get to the filler nut if i don't have a lift? can it be done on jack stands??

thankS!

Jack stands are definately a help.

BTW both my '90 D36 and my '91 D44 have a 3/8" hex (allen wrench) fitting for the drain/fill plug.