[Greenmamba]

I'd appreciate anyones' thoughts as I'm planning to change front and rear diff oils on my Gen2 2.5 EAT wagon (with VDC). Should I warm the oil by short drive before draining, or does it not make much difference (to viscosity, etc)?

 

[1 Lucky Texan]

I'd appreciate anyones' thoughts as I'm planning to change front and rear diff oils on my Gen2 2.5 EAT wagon (with VDC). Should I warm the oil by short drive before draining, or does it not make much difference (to viscosity, etc)?

I certainly don't think it would hurt anything and understand why it may be helpful but really, that fluid is not much thicker than motor oil.

what may be helpful, is a funnel and a pump;

 

[AWDFTW]

I always run the car around for a few minutes to get the fluid warmed.

 

[4wheeldog]

Contaminants (The solid bits) tend to drain better/more thoroughly when the fluid is up to temperature and well stirred. Warm is better......but not necessarily essential.

 

[John E Davies]

I always drain fluids after a short drive. I don't care if they are warm, but it's definitely a good idea to stir up any particles that may have settled to the bottom of the pan or diff housing. It won't hurt anything and may help, so that's why I always do it.

If your drain plugs have magnets, then it probably wouldn't be of any benefit.

If your fluid is contaminated or just really ugly looking, you can drain and refill with a quart or two of cheap fluid, run the car on jack stands for a few minutes, then drain and refill with good stuff.

John Davies
Spokane WA USA

 

[Greenmamba]

Thanks folks for all the comments. Appreciated.