442 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed Transmission
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at the
factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the life of the
vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not required. However,
change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contaminated
(with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for
any reason.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Six Speed Transmission
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper maintenance
intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filters if the fluid becomes
contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is
disassembled for any reason.
Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle Fluid Level
For models with 9.25 in Front Axles and 11.5 in Rear Axles,
refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Servicing And Mainte-
nance” for further information. For normal service, periodic
fluid level checks are not required. When the vehicle is
serviced for other reasons, the exterior surfaces of the axle
assembly should be inspected.
When checking the fluid level, the vehicle should be in a
level position. The fluid level at room temperature should be
as follows:
3500 Front Axle: ¼ in ± ¼ in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm) below the
bottom of the fill hole.
3500 Rear Axle: ¼ in ± ¼ in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm) below the
bottom of the fill hole.
4500/5500 Front Axle: ¼ in +/- ¼ in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm)
below the bottom of the fill hole.
4500/5500 Rear Axle: 1/8 in +/- 1/8 in (3.2 mm +/- 3.2 mm)
below the bottom of the fill hole.
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C) it may not
register on the dipstick. Do not add fluid until the
temperature is elevated enough to produce an accurate
reading. Run the engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the
fluid.
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 443
Drain And Refill
On 4500/5500 vehicles, remove the lower bolt to drain the
axle fluid.4500/5500 Rear Axle Plugs
Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in this chapter for the proper
maintenance intervals. Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica
-
tions” for further information.
NOTE:
The presence of water in the gear lubricant will result in
corrosion and possible failure of differential components.
Operation of the vehicle in water, as may be encountered in
some off-highway types of service, will require draining and
refilling the axle to avoid damage.
Limited-Slip Differentials DO REQUIRE limited slip oil
additive (friction modifiers).
NOTE:
Slight noise and mild shuddering may be evident while
turning a vehicle with limited slip differential on concrete or
dry pavement. These conditions should be considered
normal operation of the limited slip differential.
1 — 4500/5500 Rear Axle Fluid Fill Plug
2 — 4500/5500 Rear Axle Fluid Drain Plug7
