So I want to change the differential oil but have nothing to start it's a 1988 f150 what tools and oil will I need, big oil tray, gasket to refit....

 

Some rear ends have different plugs in different locations, but to drain it, should be a plug somewhere on the bottom of the differential, I would assume either a 1/2 or 3/8 drive breaker bar would work, get a oil drain pan and let it drain out. If it doesn't have a plug at the bottom take the differential cover off, let it drain. If you have to take the differential cover off, you can go to any parts store and ask them for either a differential gasket, or get that gasket stuff that comes in a tube (they'll know what your talking about) after you put it on, they'll be a plug about halfway up the differential, and that's where you refill it. Once your able to stick the tip of your finger in and get oil on the tip that's when you got enough (what I've always heard). As for oil weight, I can't really remember off hand hopefully someone will reply to that, or you could the people at a local parts store what they suggest. Hope that helps

 

Fluid depends on the rear end. I use 80/90 gear oil because I have an open diff. LS needs either an additive in the oil or synthetic fluid I believe. If you have the same kind of ford 8.8 rear end that I do I'm pretty sure there isn't a drain plug, you just have to open the cover. The fill plug is halfway up on the front side of the rear axle. Like he said you'll need the right fluid and either a gasket or gasket maker (RightStuff or some other RTV)

 

Thanks for the reply,
I bought axle limited slip 90 oil, gasket, grey maxx silicone tom thump pump and a massive oil plan. I'm going to do the diff next weekend so hopefully everything goes to plan.. Should I take both rear tyres off as we'll?

 

Tires? Nope

 

Just make sure you actually have a LS diff. You can find the axle code on the driver door frame and look up online what kind you have. I'm not sure if anything bad would happen putting ls in non-ls, but I know you get a terrible sound if you have ls and don't use the add. or LS-specific oil.

 

Not to mention trashing the clutches in the diff that allows it to be a LS diff. The additive is to keep the clutches properly conditioned. Even with synthetic gear oil its still wise to use the additive. But a LS diff in a older 8.8 is un common. But not un heard of. Your door jamb sticker sould give a axle code. Also a tag on one of the bplts on the diff cover usually has a axle code tag.

 

We'll I think I've made a wise decision.. Let me no what you think I'm just going to top up the diff oil for now, because I am driving to jabiru from Perth (relocating) and once I get there I will change out the oil and all the seals and gasket ?! I've driven to jabiru and back to Perth in October last year had no problems so I want the same I no it's working now so and havnt had anything wrong except a slight drip leak?!!

 

Well I guess you never know but chances are you'll be just fine