Rear Axle
When to Check Lubricant
It is not necessary to regularly check rear axle uid
unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an
unusual noise. A uid loss could indicate a problem.
Have it inspected and repaired.
How to Check Lubricant
To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a
level surface.For all vehicles, excluding vehicles equipped with the
6.0L V8 Engine, the proper level is from 0 to 0.40 inch
(0 to 10 mm) below the bottom of the ller plug hole,
located on the rear axle.
For vehicles equipped with the 6.0L V8 Engine, the
proper level is from 0.6 inch to 1.6 inches (15 mm to
40 mm) below the bottom of the ller plug hole, located
on the rear axle differential cover.
Add only enough uid to reach the proper level.
What to Use
To determine what kind of lubricant to use, see
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.
For vehicles equipped with the SS package, to add
lubricant when the level is low, use SAE 75W–90
Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. U.S. 12378261, in
Canada 10953455) meeting GM Speci cation 9986115.
To completely re ll after draining, add 5.5 ounces
(163 ml) of Limited-Slip Axle Lubricant Additive
(GM Part No. U.S. 1052358, in Canada 992694).
Then ll to the bottom of the ller plug hole with the
Synthetic Gear Lubricant.
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Front Axle
When to Check Lubricant
It is not necessary to regularly check front axle uid
unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an
unusual noise. A uid loss could indicate a problem.
Have it inspected and repaired.
How to Check Lubricant
To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a
level surface.If the level is below the bottom of the ller plug hole,
located on the front axle, you may need to add
some lubricant.
When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant
to raise the level to 0.50 inch (12 mm) below the ller
plug hole.
When the differential is at operating temperature
(warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the
bottom of the ller plug hole.
What to Use
To determine what kind of lubricant to use, see
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.
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