In this article we will try to answer questions regarding gearbox fluids, which is the most important part of a car, because it won’t drive without it. Why is it so important to know, because if you choose the wrong fluid, corrosion will simply eat up all the gear elements and that’s all - replacing the gearbox.
Everyone knows that we regularly perform maintenance on the engine every 10 thousand km, but what about the transmission.
What to do if, when checking the level, it turns out that there is a lot of oil in the bridge?
It happens that when you unscrew the filler plug, oil begins to flow from the bridge. Don’t rush to rejoice, the car does not produce oil, and the design of the bridge itself is made in such a way that it is physically impossible to fill in much more oil than necessary. If the car crossed a ford and/or deep puddles, water could get into the bridge.
The fact is that there is a breather in the upper part of the bridge (picture above), and the seals do not always provide a tight seal, and when overcoming a ford or deep puddles, water gets into the oil.
Naturally, running the bridge on a mixture of water and oil significantly reduces the service life of the latter.
If, when checking the oil level, you see that the oil in the bridge is much higher than the level, you should drain all the oil from the bridge and replace it with a new one recommended by the manufacturer.
Locations of filler and drain plugs on the most common domestic cars:
VAZ 2101-07, 2121
Volga GAZ 24
Volga GAZ 3110
Since the transfer case contains rubbing elements, wear products inevitably appear in it over time. If you do not change the oil in the transfer case in a timely manner, its service life will be reduced. The oil loses performance and fine particles increase gear wear.
What kind of oil to pour into the automatic transmission, axle, gearbox and transfer case
When choosing oil for the rear and front axles of the Prado 120, gearboxes, transfer case, and transmission, be sure to rely on the manufacturer’s recommendations. According to the user manual, you need to fill it in:
- bridges - mineral or semi-synthetic, 85W-90 or 80W-90;
- Automatic transmission - ATF T IV and ATF Type WS;
- transfer case - GL-3 (non-permanently on type) GL-5 (permanently on type) according to API, SAE 75W-90.
Official dealers pour original (Toyota) oils into axles, Prado 120 transfer case and other parts. But when replacing it yourself, you can use other lubricants that meet the requirements stated by the manufacturer.
So, when changing the oil in the gearbox and axles of a Toyota Prado 120, synthetic 75W-90 is filled. It can withstand temperature changes without problems (it feels comfortable even in Siberian frosts), it costs less than the original one, although its qualities are not very different.
During a comprehensive fluid change, 1.4 liters of axle oil are often poured into the Prado 120 transfer case. Many agree with this approach: the technical characteristics are no different from the “pavement”, designed for cold temperatures. Others object: the additives are different - the use of gear fluids for the transfer case can greatly harm the unit. There is no consensus on this issue, but the official dealer pours the same thing into both mechanisms.
Selecting oil for the Prado 120 transmission is not an easy task. Most owners choose original fluid from Toyota: it is not changed as often as in the engine, so you can put up with the not-so-affordable price. An alternative to “native” lubricant are:
- GToil GT ATF Type IV;
- Aisin ATF AFW+;
- Total Fluide XLD FE;
- Petro-Canada DuraDrive MV Synthetic ATF;
- Takayama ATF Multivehicle.
According to test results, these oils are not inferior to the original, and in some cases they turn out to be more frost-resistant, which allows them to be used at low temperatures.
How often to change
There are several different types of transfer cases, and depending on the type of mechanism, the frequency of replacement can vary significantly. Usually this information is contained in the technical documentation for the car and varies in the range from 50 to 100 thousand kilometers.
In addition, operating conditions affect the service life. The transfer case of a car that drives on public roads experiences much less load than that installed on a car that constantly moves off-road.
Results
In most cases, the Niva is used for off-road driving, which puts a lot of stress on the transmission. Therefore, it is optimal to change the oil after a mileage of 15–20 thousand kilometers. Do not save where it is fraught with bad consequences. When performing vehicle maintenance, evaluate the condition of all engine components, and also change filters and spark plugs at least once every two oil changes.
Even a beginner can easily select and replace transmission oil for Niva-Chevrolet. The main thing is to use the maintenance schedule to monitor the condition of the units and know when you need to change the oil. For example, every 15 thousand kilometers it is necessary to check the oil in the gearbox, whether the gearbox housing is sealed, the reliability of the fastening of the front and rear axles, and the quantity. It is recommended to change the transmission oil for the Niva-Chevrolet after 60 thousand kilometers, and after 120 thousand the transmission will have to be changed every 40 thousand kilometers. This is because the parts wear out. Usually, after 150 thousand km of travel, the most worn parts have to be replaced.
How to choose
Two types of fluid are poured into the transfer case: transmission oil or ATF fluid.
On cars with an automatic transmission, ATF is usually filled into the transfer case, and on cars with a manual transmission, the transmission is filled. In this case, often the liquids must match or be completely compatible.
This is due to the fact that usually the connection between the transfer case and the gearbox is made by a single shaft, or one is attached to the body of the other. When mixing liquids, this will avoid the formation of emulsions, foaming and other side effects.
For most modern cars with a transfer case, the manufacturer recommends using GL-5 class gear oils. They protect hypoid gears well, are designed to operate in the most heavily loaded mechanisms and contain extreme pressure additives.
The viscosity characteristics of oils play an important role. Let's look at the meaning of the numbers using 80W90 oil as an example:
- 80 – viscosity at low temperatures
- W – all-season
- 90 – viscosity at high temperatures
If ATF is used, it is better to fill in the original fluid recommended by the manufacturer, or an analogue that has the appropriate approvals.
Classification of oils
Main types of classification of transmission oils:
- SAE J306 – viscosity classification of oils for manual transmissions, transfer cases, and drive axles. Shows how much the viscosity of the transmission fluid varies with temperature changes. Modern technologies for the production of lubricants make it possible to get rid of the concept of seasonal oils. The letter W in the SAE oil designation indicates that the lubricant is all-season. The most commonly used compositions in dispensers are: 75W-90, 80W-90, 75W-85 (the first number is an indicator of low-temperature viscosity, the second - high-temperature viscosity);
- API GL – division of oils into quality classes, depending on the main performance characteristics of the compositions. The indicators are determined by the performance of corrosion inhibitors, antioxidant, anti-wear and anti-foam additives. The minimum class of oils that can be poured into transfer cases is API GL 3 (applicable only to Part-Time all-wheel drive systems without a center differential, since GL 3 is not recommended for use in heavily loaded hypoid gears). API GL 4 is perfect for transfer cases of both domestic cars (Niva, UAZ) and most foreign cars (Toyota Land Cruiser 90, Mitsubishi Pajero II, Opel Frontera B, etc.). API GL 5 class compounds receive the highest rating. They are recommended for use in hypoid transmissions of drive axles and transfer cases of modern passenger cars.
Some manufacturers, along with API GL and SAE J306, indicate the MIL specification, which only shows oil compliance with the requirements of the US Military Department.
How to choose oil
The transmission should be selected according to the climatic conditions in which the car is used. If in the region of operation the temperature often drops below -30ºС, then oils with a low-temperature rating of 70W are recommended (75W is also acceptable, but in especially severe frosts the oil will be too thick before warming up). In areas where the specified temperature barrier is not achievable, 75W should be used. For regions with a temperate climate, 80W is also suitable. As for the high-temperature indicator according to SAE, the following values are quite suitable for civilian SUVs and passenger cars: 80.90 (for example, 75W90).
If you want to change the transfer case oil yourself, then information about the necessary tolerances, specifications, and filling volume can be found in the repair and operating manual for your car model (or similar cars on which the same type of transfer case is installed).
The influence of the layout of transmission components
The type of transmission fluid will depend not only on the design of the transfer case, but also on the engine-transmission combination. In fully mechanical transfer cases, in which the operating principle is reduced to moving sliding clutches and changing the combination of rotating gears, a simple gear oil is used - API GL 4/5. It is also poured into mechanical gearboxes and differentials of drive axles. But if the same archaic type of transfer case is installed in tandem with an automatic transmission, then instead of conventional oil, transmission fluid for automatic transmissions - ATF - should be used.
Please note that doing the opposite - pouring an automatic transmission into the box when replacing it - is strictly prohibited!
This requirement is due to the fact that the gearbox and transfer case have a common shaft, through which torque is transmitted from the gearbox to the driving axles of the car. To ensure that in the event of oil seal wear, mixing does not lead to foaming, thickening or the formation of an emulsion, in case of replacement, it is recommended to use the same class of technical fluids in both units. The same requirement is put forward for cars with manual transmission, where the transfer case is attached directly to the gearbox housing.
In which transfer cases is it mandatory to use ATF?
The use of ATF is mandatory in transfer cases, the design of which involves blocking the center differential or connecting one of the drive drives with clutch packs. In transfer cases of TOD (Torque-on-demand) systems and Haldex couplings, oil not only performs a lubricating and cooling function, but is also used as a working fluid.
What and how much to fill
The table below will allow you to select oil by car brand and find out how much is required.
| Automobile | Oil | Volume (l) |
| AUDI | ||
| audi q7 (audi q7) | G052162A2, 4014835712317 Ravenol ATF 5/4 HP | 0,85 |
| BMW | ||
| BMW x5 e53 (bmw x5 e53) | BMW 83 22 9 407 858 "ATF D-III, ATS-500 83220397244 | 1 |
| BMW x5 e70 (bmw x5 e70) | 83 22 0 397 244, Multi DCTF, Motylgear 75W80 | 1 |
| BMW x3 e83 (bmw x3 e83) | 83229407858 | 1 |
| BMW x3 f25 (bmw x3 f25) | BMW Verteilergetriebe 4WD TF 0870 (83 22 0 397 244) | 0,6 |
| GAS | ||
| gas 66 | TAp-15V, TSp-15K, TSp-Mgip, 80W90 Gl-4 | 1,5 |
| GREAT WALL | ||
| Great wall hover | Dexron III | 1,6 |
| JEEP | ||
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | Mopar 05016796AC | 2 |
| INFINITI | ||
| Infiniti fx35 (Infiniti fx35) | Nissan Matic D - KE908-99931 | 2 |
| KAMAZ | ||
| KAMAZ 43118 | TSp-15K | 5,4 |
| KIA | ||
| Kia Sorento | Dexron II, III (IDEMITSU Multi ATF, GT ATF TYPE Multi Vehicle IV) | 2 |
| Kia Sorento 2 (kia sorento 2) | Castrol Syntrax Universal Plus 75W90, RAVENOL TGO 75W90 | 0,6 |
| Kia Sportage 1 | API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 | 1 |
| Kia Sportage 2 | 75W90 GL-5 (Mobil Mobilube HD 75W90 GL-5, Castrol 4008177071768 "Syntrax Longlife 75W-90) | 0,8 |
| Kia Sportage 3 | HYPOID GEAR OIL API GL-5, SAE 75W/90 | 0,6 |
| Kia Sorento TOD | Shell Spirax S4 ATF HDX, MOBIL ATF LT 71141 | 2 |
| Kia Sorento Part-Time | ATF Dexron III | 2 |
| RANGE ROVER | ||
| Land Rover Discovery 3 | SAF-XO 75W-90, Syntrax Longlife 75W-90 | 1,5 |
| Land Rover Discovery 4 | Tl7300-Shell Tf0753 | |
| Land Rover Freelander 2 | API GL5, SAE 90 | |
| Land Rover Defender | 75W-140 GL-5 | 2,3 |
| LEXUS | ||
| Lexus rx300/330 (Lexus rx300/330) | 85W-90, CASTROL TAF-X 75W-90 | 1 |
| MERCEDES | ||
| Mercedes GLK (Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class) | dispenser in a box | |
| Mercedes ml 163 (mercedes ml 163) | 236.13 #A001989230310, Motul Multi ATF | 2 |
| Mercedes w163 (Mercedes-Benz w163) | A 10 | 1,5 |
| Mercedes w164 (Mercedes-Benz w164) | A0019894503 | 0,5 |
| MAZDA | ||
| mazda cx 5 | GL-5 80W-90, MOBIL Mobilube HD 80w-90 GL-5 | 0,5 |
| mazda cx 7 | 80W90 API GL-4/GL-5 | 2 |
| MITSUBISHI | ||
| Mitsubishi Pajero Sport | Castrol TAF-X 75W-90 | 3 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander 3, xl (mitsubishi outlander 3, xl) | 80W90 GL-5, 75W90 GL-5 | 0,5 |
| mitsubishi l200 (mitsubishi l200) | GL-3 75W-85, GL-4 75W-85 | 2,5 |
| Mitsubishi Pajero 2 (mitsubishi pajero 2) | 75W85GL4 | 2,8 |
| Mitsubishi Pajero 3 (mitsubishi pajero 3) | GL-5 80W-90, Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75W-90 | 3 |
| Mitsubishi Pajero 4 (mitsubishi pajero 4) | ENEOS GEAR GL-5 75W-90 | 2,8 |
| Mitsubishi Montero Sport | Castrol TAF-X 75W-90 | 3 |
| Mitsubishi Delica | 75W90 Gl-4 | 1,6 |
| NIVA | ||
| Niva 2121/21213/21214 (VAZ 2121/21213/21214) | Lukoil TM-5 (75W-90, 80W-90, 85W-90), TNK Trans Gipoid (80W-90), Shell Transaxle Oil (75W-90) | 0,8 |
| NISSAN | ||
| Nissan x trail t31 (nissan x trail t31) | Nissan Differential Fluid (KE907-99932), Castrol Syntrax universal plus 75w90 GL-4/GL-5 | 0,35 |
| Nissan Qashqai | NISSAN Differential Fluid SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 | 0,4 |
| Nissan Pathfinder r51 (Nissan Pathfinder r51) | Nissan Matic-D, Dexron III | 2,6 |
| Nissan Terrano | SAE75W90 GL-4, GL-5 | 2 |
| Nissan Teana | GL-5 80W90 | 0,38 |
| Nissan Murano z51 (Nissan murano z51) | Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid SuperGL-5 80W-90 | 0,3 |
| OPEL | ||
| Opel Antara | GL-5 75W90 | 0,8 |
| Opel Mokka | GM 93165693, MOBILUBE 1 SHC 75W-90, Motul GEAR 300 75W-90 | 1 |
| PORSCHE | ||
| Porsche Cayenne Hang-on | Shell TF0870, RAVENOL Transfer Fluid TF-0870 | 0,9 |
| Porsche Cayenne Torsen | Castrol BOT 850, Burmah BOT 850 | 0,9 |
| RENAULT | ||
| Renault Duster 2.0 4x4 (renault duster 2.0 4x4) | Elf TransElf Type B 80W90 | 0,75 |
| Renault Koleos | Elf TransElf Type B 80W-90, Total Transmission rs fe 80w-90 | 1,5 |
| SUZUKI | ||
| Suzuki Escudo | SAE 75W-90, 80W-90 API GL-4 | 1,7 |
| Suzuki Grand Vitara | 75W-90 API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 | 1,6 |
| Suzuki CX4 | TAF-X | 0,6 |
| SSANGYONG | ||
| SsangYong Kyron (automatic transmission) | Dexron IID, III | 1,3 |
| SsangYong Kyron manual transmission | 80W90 API GL-4/GL-5 | 1,4 |
| SUBARU | ||
| Subaru Forester | no transfer case, reduction gear in the box | |
| TOYOTA | ||
| Toyota Hilux | API GL3 75W-90 | 1 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 120/150/200 | GL-5 75W90 Toyota Gear oil | 1,4 |
| toyota rav 4 | Toyota Synthetic Gear Oil API GL4/GL5, SAE 75W-90 | |
| Toyota Highlander | LT 75W-85 GL-5 TOYOTA | 0,5 |
| UAZ | ||
| UAZ Patriot | SAE 75W/90 according to API GL-3, TSp-15K, TAP-15V, TAD-17I | 0,7 |
| UAZ 469 | TAD-17, 80W90 Gl-5, 85W90 GL-5 | 0,7 |
| UAZ Hunter | SAE 75W/90 according to API GL-3 | 0,7 |
| URAL | ||
| Ural 4320 | TSp-15K | 3,5 |
| FORD | ||
| Ford explorer 2013 (ford explorer 2013) | Motul 75w140 | 0,4 |
| ford kuga | SAE 75W-90 | 0,5 |
| ford kuga 2 | SAE 75W140 | 0,4 |
| Ford Maverick | SAE 75W140 | 2 |
| Ford Explorer 5 | SAE 75W140 (Castrol Syntrax Limited Slip 75w140) | 0,4 |
| VOLKSWAGEN | ||
| Volkswagen Amarok | G052533A2, Castrol Transmax Z | 1,25 |
| Volkswagen Touareg | VAG G052515A2, Castrol Transmax Z | 0,85 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | G 052 145 S2 | 1 |
| HYUNDAI | ||
| Hyundai ix35 (Hyundai ix35) | 75W90 | 1 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7 (Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7) | Shell Spirax AXME 75W90 | 1 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 80W90 GL-4/Gl-5 (Shell Spirax S3 AX 80W-90), 75W90 GL-5 (Сastrol Syntrax Universal 75W-90) | 0,8 |
| HONDA | ||
| Honda CR-V | transfer case combined with gearbox | |
| CHEVROLET | ||
| Chevrolet Niva | 80W-90 GL-4, 75W-90 | 0,8 |
| Chevrolet Captiva | GL-5 75W90 | 0,8 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | Dexron VI (GM Dexron 6, Spirax S3 ATF MD3, Chevron ATF MD3, AC Delco auto trak II) | 2 |
| Chevrolet TrailBlazer | GM Auto-Trak II | 2 |
Check level
On most cars, inspection windows are not provided to check the oil level in the transfer case. Level control and replacement is carried out through the filler hole.
To check, you need to place the car on a flat surface and unscrew the filler bolt, or the control bolt, if any. Usually they are made with a quad or hexagon, or with a wrench.
A normal level is just below the fill/check hole.
The need for replacement is determined by taking a small amount of oil. This can be done using a syringe with a flexible tube attached to the end. Black, cloudy, with traces of wear and tear, must be replaced.
Replacement timing
It is necessary to change the oil in a mechanical transfer case approximately once every 100 thousand kilometers. It must be taken into account that the resource greatly depends on operating conditions. If the car is often used in severe off-road conditions or dusty roads, it is advisable to reduce the replacement time by 1/3. Comparable resource and transmission of the rear axle gearbox.
Please note that the oil must be changed if you have crossed a ford where the water level is higher than the location of the transfer case breather.
For electronic transfer cases, the average replacement frequency is 60-70 thousand km. Operating conditions also affect the service intervals for transfer cases with electro-hydraulic drive locks. Frequent sliding and overcoming off-road conditions accelerate oil oxidation and contamination of friction discs with wear products.
Simple verification method
Visual control of the consistency and presence of emulsion can be assessed by unscrewing the filler plug. Use a syringe with a tube of suitable diameter to withdraw a small amount of old oil from the dispenser.
- Changing the oil in the transfer case should be carried out within 10-15 minutes after a trip of at least 5-10 km. During operation, the oil heats up and becomes thinner, which makes it drain better.
- On most cars, the drain and filler holes are made “square”, so to unscrew you only need a ratchet or a wrench of the appropriate size. Of course, this is provided that the bottom is not covered with anther, which will need to be dismantled before replacement.
- The accompanying tool will most likely require a hydraulic syringe for technical fluids. In some cars, using a container with a “spout” allows you to replace it without a syringe.
- On most transfer cases, it is considered normal when the level is slightly below (5-10 mm) the filler hole. You can determine the actual amount of oil poured with your finger or a piece of bent wire. To speed up the process of self-replacement, you can add oil until it flows out of the level control hole - this will not harm the transfer case or rear axle at all.
DIY Replacement Guide
Instructions for changing the transfer case oil on a VAZ-2121 Niva with your own hands.
In the video you can see how easy it is to change the oil in the transfer case on both the VAZ 2121 (2131, 4x4) and the VW Touareg.
How to change
The replacement procedure itself is simple, but is often complicated by the fact that access to the filler hole is difficult. A lift, inspection pit or overpass is also required.
Some car enthusiasts make their own drain hole in the transfer case to make the process of a complete oil change as easy as possible. To do this, a hole is drilled at the bottom point for the plug and a thread is cut.
You will need:
- A special syringe for pumping out technical fluids (cost 500-800 rubles). You can use a medical one, but due to its small volume, the replacement process will be significantly delayed. It’s up to you to decide what’s more valuable – time or money.
- Transfer case oil (transmission/ATF) recommended by the manufacturer or having the appropriate specification.
- Gasket sealant, degreasing liquid.
To prevent dirt from getting inside the transfer case, you should clean the surfaces before unscrewing the plugs.
There is a drain hole
If your car is equipped with a drain plug, you need to unscrew the bolt and wait until the oil drains out completely. The magnet on the plug should be cleaned of wear debris. Degrease the drain hole and plug, apply a layer of sealant and screw the plug into place.
Using a syringe, fill the transfer case with oil until it flows over the edge of the filler hole, then screw the plug onto the sealant.
No drain
In this case, all operations are performed through the filler hole. A syringe tube is inserted into it and the oil is pumped out as much as possible. The procedure for filling new oil is no different from that described above.
For any vehicle, the importance of timely replacement of lubricants cannot be overestimated. Oils used in components and assemblies subject to friction at high speeds significantly reduce their overheating and wear, helping to extend their service life. Among such components, one cannot fail to note the transfer case, which is equipped with all-wheel drive vehicles. Both old Niva cars and models under the Chevrolet brand, produced since 2002, need no introduction - these are one of the most popular all-wheel drive vehicles in our country, which have earned the love of motorists for their unpretentiousness, ease of maintenance and low cost. What is especially pleasing is that the vast majority of maintenance operations on a domestic SUV can be performed independently, without turning to the help of specialists or a car service center. In particular, this also applies to changing the oil in the Niva transfer case - a procedure that does not require special professional skills or special tools.
The oil in the Niva transfer case should be checked every 10 thousand km.
How to choose
Today, there are two types of lubricating oils for the transfer case: ATF fluid and transmission oil for the transfer case. As a rule, in those vehicles on which it is installed, you need to fill the transmission, and in those with an automatic transmission, ATF.
Note that for modern vehicles, manufacturers recommend using GL-5 class transmission oils. They do an excellent job of protecting hypoid gears, and also cope well during movement (because they contain shockproof additives).
Also, its viscosity plays an important role in choosing a lubricant for the transfer case. Take, for example, the value “80W90”:
- W - this means that the material is all-season;
- 80 – viscosity level values at low temperatures;
- 90 – viscosity at high temperatures.
If your car is suitable for ATF fluid, then it is recommended to buy original materials recommended by the manufacturer. As a last resort, an analogue that has all the necessary approvals is suitable.
Replacement frequency
According to the recommendations given in the service book, the oil in the transfer case of a Niva car should be changed for the first time during the fourth maintenance, that is, after driving 45 thousand kilometers. Then the procedure should be repeated with the same frequency. It should be especially noted that on the new Niva the transmission oil is changed after running-in (2000 km). It is recommended to check the lubricant level in the transfer case every 10 thousand kilometers. However, experts advise focusing not so much on the recommended indicators, but on the condition of this important unit, as well as factors related to the operating conditions of the vehicle.
It’s one thing when the car drives mainly on good roads (urban, on country roads), and quite another when its owner lives in the countryside or is an avid hunter, fisherman, or simply a big fan of outdoor activities. In such cases, checking the level and quality of the oil in the transfer case should be carried out more often, and if signs of fluid contamination appear, it should be replaced without waiting for the regulatory deadlines. So you decide for yourself when to change the oil in the Niva transfer case, taking into account all the above factors.
What to fill and when to change transmission oil
Probably, many car enthusiasts have wondered: how to choose the right type of oil, and what is the general change interval?
To answer this question, just look at the user manual, or use the official selection
There is usually an index at the end of the book. Look for the words "fluid", "capacity" or "Specifications".
In this section, pay attention to the manual transmission category.
For example, in the manual for 4WD Mazda CX-9 2020, there are two grades that are used in this vehicle.
Therefore, when choosing a product for Mazda, pay attention to the label of the can, and as shown in the figure below, the oil meets the standard, which is very important, and viscosity 75w90
How often should you change the oil - change interval
I recommend using average replacement intervals; if you have an aggressive driving style, your interval will vary from 55,000 to 80,000 km.
For normal driving conditions, some car manufacturers recommend changing the transmission oil every 90,000-100,000 km, while others advise simply monitoring the condition of the oil and changing it as needed.
Ford goes even further; for some models, under normal operating conditions, it does not oblige you to change the transmission oil on the rear axle and on the power take-off (aka transfer case), citing the fact that they are lubricated almost for life.
However, we found a lot of disagreement between technical experts.
Checking the oil level
The procedure for checking the oil level in the Niva transfer case is quite simple, in any case, it does not require any special skills. The only difficult point is that it is necessary to provide access to the bottom of the car, for which you will need to drive it into a hole, overpass, or securely install it on blocks. The second point is that the check must be carried out on a cold car, so if you have driven somewhere before, wait until the car has cooled down.
The procedure itself is simple - just unscrew the filler plug with a 12mm hexagon, having first thoroughly cleaned the seat of dirt, and use a suitable object (a wooden stick or a piece of wire) to measure how much lower the liquid level is at the bottom edge of the hole. If this distance exceeds 10 mm, topping up should be done, which is done using a special syringe. You need to add until the lubricant begins to flow out of the hole, then wipe the box dry and tighten the plug.
Choosing the right oil
The issue of choosing a lubricant for the Niva transfer case and axles should be taken responsibly, because the reliable operation of these transmission elements ensures that you will never find yourself in a situation requiring outside help. The recommended ones have characteristics that ensure optimal operation of the vehicle component for which they are intended. If you know exactly what kind of oil is poured into the transfer case, the choice is simplified: just purchase a lubricant with the same viscosity. If this information is not available, it’s also not a problem: you just need to drain all the old transmission fluid, that is, do not limit yourself to topping up if, say, the level is too low and the lubricant itself is not yet very contaminated.
It should be noted that if you do not know which oil to pour into the Niva transfer case, which one into the box, which one into the axles, then the manufacturer claims that you can use the same transmission fluid in all of these units. If we talk about, then acceptable oils are 78W90, 80W85, 80W90, the main condition is. The manufacturer is not so important if it is a well-known foreign or domestic brand.
The automaker fills the transfer case with mineral water, but when replacing the fluid, the preferred lubricant would be semi-synthetic, which has better performance characteristics that are more suitable for the climate of our country.
When, how much and what kind of oil is needed for Prado 150 (diesel)
In order to choose the right oil for replacement, you must use the instructions included with your car.
If your car is under warranty, the use of oils from other manufacturers is not recommended.
For diesel engine 1KD-FTV and its modifications: KDJ150R-GKFEYW, KDJ150R-GKAEYW, KDJ150L-GKFEYW, KDJ150GKAEYW, KDJ155R-GJFEYW, KDJ155R-GJAEYW, KDJ155L-GJFEYW and KDJ155L-GJAEY W, the best replacement alternative would be original Toyota engine oil Genuine Motor Oil." Also, after the warranty has expired, you can use an equivalent engine oil that meets the API quality and oil viscosity requirements.
For a complete replacement, the following types of oils are suitable: G-DLD-1, API CF-4, CF or ACEA B1; in extreme cases, you can use API CE or CD brands. The recommended oil viscosity must correspond to the temperature and climatic operating conditions of the vehicle.
For example, when using oil with a viscosity of SAE 10W-30 or higher at extremely low temperatures, the 1KD-FTV engine may have difficulty starting.
In accordance with the instructions, the lubricant filling volume will be:
- for replacement with 7.0 l filter;
- for replacement without filter 6.7 l.
The procedure for changing the oil in a Niva transfer case yourself
If, as a result of the next check of the level or in the transfer case, it turns out that it is time to replace it (symptoms indicating the need to perform such a procedure may be not only a very dark color of the oil with the inclusion of solid particles, but also the appearance of noise when turning on the transfer case or during its work), you can perform such a replacement yourself.
To do this, you will need a 19 and 12 hex wrench, a liter container for used lubricant and some rags. It will also be necessary to provide access to the car from the bottom, for which you can use a lift, an overpass or an inspection hole.
Immediately before replacement, you should warm up the car (drive it for about 10 kilometers). Procedure for performing Niva:
Note that draining and adding fresh oil is a technically absolutely identical procedure for all modifications of the Niva.
All-wheel drive vehicles are gradually gaining more and more love among car owners. This trend is associated with better driving performance compared to conventional cars. 4-wheel drive often helps out in difficult situations on the road, especially in winter. Anyone knows that it is much easier to get out of a snowy section of the road, drive through mud outside the city or in icy conditions when all the wheels of the car are spinning. It's even better when all-wheel drive is combined with a manual transmission. Cars with 2WD and 4WD have one significant difference in design - this is the transfer case.
