Dana Spicer and Meritor Axles
Notice: Failure to change the axle lubricant at more frequent intervals, when adverse operating conditions require, could result in axle damage.
Note: Axle lubricant change intervals are extended to 500,000 miles (800 000 km) on vehicles equipped with a Meritor RT40–145P or RT46–160P rear axle.
- Remove the shift unit housing cover. See Fig.. Drain and discard the old lubricant. Discard the housing cover
gasket.
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Housing Cover Gasket
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Oil Fill Plug
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Shift Unit Housing Cover
Fig. 1, Two-Speed-Axle Shift Unit
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- Thoroughly wash the axle shift parts and housing cover, and allow them to air dry.
- Install the housing cover and a new cover gasket. Tighten the housing cover capscrews 7.5 to 9.2 lbf·ft (10.2 to 12.5 N·m), then remove the oil fill plug from the cover.
- Fill the shift unit housing through the oil fill hole until specified lubricant is level with the bottom of the opening.
- Apply a small amount of Loctite® 242, or equivalent sealant, to the threads of the fill plug. Install the plug finger-tight on the rear axle housing. Use a wrench and tighten it an additional 1-1/2 turns.
Important: When the ambient temperature is above 0°F (–18°C), use SAE 10 heavy-duty engine oil, API service classification SD (sulfated ash content must not exceed 1.85%). When the ambient temperature is below 0°F (–18°C), use one part kerosene to three parts SAE 10 heavy-duty engine oil, API service classification SD (sulfated ash content must not exceed 1.85%). This cold-weather mixture can be safely used up to 32°F (0°C).
Commercially available automatic transmission fluid may be used in place of SAE 10 engine oil. Automatic transmission fluid can be used for all temperatures; do not mix it with kerosene. To prevent component damage, do not mix engine oil and automatic transmission fluid.