Ford Trucks: Quickly Determine Which Differential You Have and If Friction Modifier is Required

In this video we illustrate how to identify the different Ford Differentials and which ones require friction modifier to be added to new fluid when servicing the rear Differential. In the end remember this: You can add friction modifier to any axle and no harm will be done but if you don't add friction modifier and the differential ends up being a limited slip unit, damage will occur. So if you are still unsure if your axle requires friction modifier after this video it is better to be safe than sorry and just add one entire bottle.
Ford Friction Modifier (most axles require only one bottle)-
amzn.to/2EajfDD
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The information, demonstration and any content contained in this video is for informational purposes only. The user and BSG Automotive (hereinafter “FordTechMakuloco”) makes no warranty, express or implied, regarding the effectiveness or safety of the contents of this video. In no way should the contents of the video, including the tools used, be repeated or tried by anyone. Viewers should only seek the help of a trained professional located at a licensed auto repair shop for any fix, modification, alteration, or any change to their vehicle. FordTechMakuloco shall not be liable for any injury, damage, or loss to any person or property that may result from use of the tools, equipment, or any content contained in this video. In addition, there is no way to guarantee that the video is not altered or modified or is not in the final form submitted by FordTechMakuloco and therefore, FordTechMakuloco does not warrant that the video is unaltered or not modified. The links on this video to products are for informational purposes only and in no way are an endorsement of the safety or effectiveness of the particular product. Viewers understand that anything contained in this video or linked to or from this video is the sole responsibility of the viewer and in no way provides an express or implied warranty as to the safety or effectiveness of any linked tool, product, or video. Therefore, viewer agrees to release, waive, and discharge FordTechMakuloco or anyone affiliated with FordTechMakuloco, from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, and causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by the viewer, or to any property belonging to viewer, regardless of whether the loss is linked to the use of the contents of this video, or otherwise and regardless of whether such liability arises in tort, contract, strict liability, or otherwise, to the fullest extent allowed by law.

[@FordTechMakuloco]

In the end remember this: You can add friction modifier to any axle and no harm will be done but if you don't add friction modifier and the differential ends up being a limited slip unit, damage will occur. So if you are still unsure if your axle requires friction modifier after this video it is better to be safe than sorry and just add one entire bottle with your new axle fluid. Ford Friction Modifier (most axles only require one bottle)- amzn.to/2EajfDD

[@Bereft777]

Have you seen the damage done first hand? Thank you great video!

[@FordTechMakuloco]

Yes

[@Bereft777]

@@FordTechMakuloco what took the brunt of damage, the friction discs? Tens of thousands of miles maybe 100,000. I was fascinated with this additive in our posi rear ends. Thank you

[@GABRI8A]

@@FordTechMakuloco hello my friend, how do I know what type of oil does my f150 use on the differential??? Is there a way to know, or if you can tell me it will be great.. thank you.

[@axesandalcohol3776]

I used royal purple on my diff and didn't realize it needed friction modifier I got about 200km before needing a new diff

[@howardkoyl8174]

You have some of the best videos on KZbin. Straight to the point without unnecessary drama or music. Nicely done.

[@GIGABACHI]

"...This right here is what they call a conventional differential or OPEN differential and is NOT because the cover's off..." . . . that made me chuckle, LOL. 🤣 Good work, Mr Brian ! 👍😎

[@unclematt3]

Damn good information! He's on here helping America!

[@misterphuzz]

I recently got myself a new-to-me 2011 F150 XLT EB, and I have found your videos to be the most informative of them all. I'm not an automotive nerd by any stretch of the imagination, but I am a big time DIYer and your videos are so very helpful!

[@jesushorses]

Perfecto. Simple and easy to understand. I have a 2015 EcoBoost and I find your videos helpful from time to time! Preventive maintenance! The only problem I’ve had with my truck in its 135k is the darn Lariat dual climate actuators and the expansion valve for the A/C in the firewall has gone out twice.

[@ikigai47]

Nice vid thanks. Basically in a nutshell if both wheels turn the same way you need friction modifier added in when changing the rear differential fluid

[@stevenfuchs2548]

Great video, used the fluid change vid to change the fluid in my 14 F350 SD and now my 05 F150. Each have a (what I call ) a timing wheel on the left side. The 14 looks to be the electronic lock Dif. I bought the 150 with a 3.55 limited slip. Nice to know that there is no harm done by adding friction modifier!

[@barrybebenek8691]

Thanks for that. I never “actually” knew what the modifier was doing when added. And now I also know to just it regardless. 👍🏼🇨🇦

[@carlosbishig1]

Beautiful video and hello from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

[@stephenmoxley5188]

Great information, as always. I already knew about trac-loc and open diffs, but not about electronic locking diffs.

[@UGRagtop]

So thankful for your channel. Thank you for taking time out of your day to educate us on these procedures. You've saved me so much time and money.

[@jsjizzaone3590]

Finally I know what I have for rear diff thanks for another well explained instructional.

[@mikecont9742]

Absolutely great explanation.. thanks for passing the knowledge on...

[@ericsmith1737]

Your knowledge and experience is much appreciated, thank you.

[@gregorbabic7664]

One of the best changes I made to my 2010 was swapping the factory limited slip with an Eaton trutrac. Works awesome!

[@noontimewhale]

What gear oil did you use?

[@gregorbabic7664]

@@noontimewhale I use a shell mineral oil. It specifically calls for mineral based gear oil only. No synthetic allowed or it won’t function properly.

[@gregorbabic7664]

@@kevinoneill41 My truck is RWD only. I have never gotten stuck with it, but don’t go doing any true off-road either. But I do live in Canada with bad winters and with the rear Trutrac and snow tires; I have no issues in driving through unplowed roads that stop other vehicles. I found it to be a very worthwhile upgrade. I have tested it where one wheel is on ice and the other on clear road and the truck accelerates as though both wheels were on dry pavement. I can tell when it may be time to change the diff fluid because I will start to feel a bit of a binding when doing sharp turns. Only negative I would say for it is the fact you can’t run synthetic diff oil and in the cold I can feel how much thicker the oil is before it warms up. And in general, I would say the truck took a small hit in fuel economy because of that.

[@bobbyt3358]

Another great informative video. Thanks for taking the time to show how to get things done right.

[@roadkill5333]

Great job, Brian! Showing how to quickly tell the difference between the diff. diffs!! So to speak!! Lol

[@Burrkilla]

Great Video Brian. 👍🏻 as always

[@joeacfalle2380]

Great information, I’m looking at changing the oil, and was thinking how to identify my 4x4 rear axle.

[@rodneybrand8521]

Hi Brian ...I've have learned so much from you I feel I should send you a check...lol..they don't teach some the things you've shown us the way you do ... I Enjoy your videos... Cheers 🍻🍻🍻🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@RktsledTv]

Thanks for the great info I have used some of your videos that have helped my fix my fords. Thanks for all your videos will have to do my timing chain on my EcoBoost soon will be using your videos to help with the installation

[@Limeayy]

Great video, i like it when people show a video of the differentials working. That's all i wanted. ^^

[@lucky5wonder]

Thank you so much, I was going crazy trying to figure this out, 01 f150 super crew - rear V941A 3L55 975. Your insight and knowledge help me determine min is a limited slip and I need that additive.

[@stevenl8687]

Great demonstration! Your channel is very informative. Thank you for sharing!

[@michaelmurray121]

Thank you for another great video Brian .Blessings brother 🙏🏽

[@orvillemeek6893]

Good information...concise and to the point...keep the videos coming!!

[@cjpayne677]

Changed my differential oil on my 2010 F150 and got further confused about the friction modifier because I thought I had the locking diff, but it was a locking Transfer Case that connects the front dif to the rear dif. Never had so much overthinking involved in an oil change before! Mine was the FX4 which was advertised as a limited slip so I went with the friction modifier. Like he says, the modifier won't hurt if it doesn't need it, but if you're trying to debate ordering some for your change Ford advertises the heck out of the locking rear differential but makes almost no mention of the Transfer Case lock, and they look the same on the 4H 4L switch. I referenced the video you made about the differential change and you showed it as an electronic locking but the electric switch looked different than in this video with the newer model. Thanks for all your video's hoping my F150 will last years and years. 2010 FX4 5.4L Super Crew

[@mikehenry4743]

Another great video, thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge.

[@jessiehughes9432]

Super!! Learned something new today,checking my differential tomorrow.👌👍🏻

[@justins8768]

Man I needed this video. Learned me a few things. Thanks

[@eliestvanik301]

Brian great explanation very informative nice video

[@intruderIG]

As always ,great video. Very educational. Thank You

[@chrischiampo7647]

Thank You I Love These Videos Your The Ford Guru 👨🏼‍🔧👨🏼‍🔧

[@RobertKohut]

Nice!! Never knew an electronic diff would only spin one wheel. Cool!

[@philchristmas4071]

Only until you lock it in

[@key2products]

Great video like always... thank you for all your help!!!

[@smigletat9634]

Good tips once again!👍

[@bsc26]

Awesome video. Very helpful. Thanks.

[@louis3998]

Like always, very good video. Thanks

[@jess8075]

Just what I was looking for. Thank you so much.

[@bradfordgrant6614]

Great video keep up the good work.

[@dewrus2153]

Great information as always....thanks! BTW, I loved that unintentional pun-"They call this an open differential but not because the cover is off"!

[@Bereft777]

Lol

[@jhruiz84]

Thank you very much for the information, I appreciate you!!👍👍

[@yoandyhernandez7379]

you are just the best men ! thank you so much for that info !!!

[@darrylm3627]

Good Stuff,Great Tips😄👍🏿

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Great info video

[@jeremyludington9796]

First, great channel! I own 3 Fords in Rockford, IL. This channel keeps them running! I have a newly acquired 03 F150 5.4 2V with a rear diff that has an overlabel on the rear axle and steel tabs on the diff cover that calls out FEHP oil only 75W90. I think this may be rebuilt rear diff? Original calls for 75W140. Also noticed an actual gasket material is used, versus gasket maker. Can you give me some advice on this scenario? Jeremy

[@rondail5675]

Love this channel and don't own a Ford or truck.

[@scarecrowzero84]

Same here. I wish there was a GM version of this guy.

[@CJ-rj9tg]

Buy a ford 🤷‍♂️

[@emeryhersh8702]

Thank you for this video! I found out I have a limited slip in my truck!

[@tboneproductions2453]

Great info. Thank you

[@revbikerbigd8664]

Good video, thanks!

[@JerryJrsGarage]

Good video Brian thanks :)

[@cessealbeach]

The manual is great reference, but ford might have made changes for the type oil that goes in the rear diff, if you go to the dealership, using the vin # , they would tell you the latest and greatest fluid type, with the rear diff there has been some changes in type of fluid. Great Content

[@Built4dTough]

Thank you for this video.

[@carolinenagy5009]

Love the videos brian hey just woundering if you can make a video on a 7.3 powerstroke diesel front crank seal replacement tks

[@michaelgood1791]

Could you do a video on replacing coolant on the 6.7 diesel engine for both the engine as well as the fuel sides. You videos are outstanding

[@imurtroll5242]

A true master technician

[@smoberdeen]

Thanks for another great video. I replaced the differential fluid in the F350 super duty and now I need to replace the rear axle dust shields and park brake. I see people are packing the floating rear wheel bearings and say the manual recommends this. What Motorcraft grease is compatible with the Motorcraft Synthetic 75-140 Rear axle lubrication? Should I just use the leftover axle lubrication on the bearings during reassembly and forego the grease?

[@HunterKelton]

Good videos as always. A point of experience. A limited slip differential will oftsn spin the opposite direction of the tire you are turning. It's better to leave one wheel on the ground and you notice you can't spin the wheel that off the ground.

[@FordTechMakuloco]

A limited slip is locked together so they spin together, you are thinking of an open diff. This video is to show you what diff you have not if your limited slip diff is worn out which is the test you are speaking of.

[@zurkstervideos7194]

@@FordTechMakuloco Now i'm confused. I changed my diff fluid in my 2010 F150 and the Axel code is H9, which is LS, However when I preformed the wheel test you show, they turn opposite of each other. so is there a chance it is limited slip but worn out?? Hearing a lot of clanking in the rear end, perhaps thats why

[@oscarpena4514]

Hi I appreciate your videos very helpful thanks, I have an open differential 3.31 gears. What parts do I need to buy and replace to have a 3.73 Limited Slip ?

[@boofyfart1202]

Hi first thank you for these great videos!!! Renews my faith in people and mechanics...2nd do you have a video on ABS + TCS + BRAKE light on 2009 Screw Lariat 5.4 Triton 120k most recent tune up completed... Thank you for your help

[@movaughn20]

Glad I watched this before popping off my diff cover. Added friction Modifier to cart. Any issue with using Valvoline 85-140? Should have watched your other videos before purchasing gear oil...

[@alphaomega8373]

Thank you!

[@CHICOandtheVAN]

Phew...I added limited slip modifier to an open diff. Rookie mistake but thanks for the clarification.

[@Cfass1]

Is there a way to check for play and see if the clutch packs are getting worn out when the diff cover is off? How many miles will they typically last- when properly maintained. Another great video btw. 👍🏼

[@rudybishop9089]

good stuff !

[@goodbast06]

Thank you 🙏. Out here doing gods work lol.

[@willright9146]

Good stuff

[@HETPEZB]

Thanks for the info! So what's better - electronic locking or a limited slip dif? On a side note - I'm guilty too, but manual says never to jack up the car by the rear dif :)

[@Envirotech]

Thanks for the great video! In the end I wound up taking my 2010 F150 to the dealer, the drive shaft center bearing was going on it, and it had a pass side rear seal leak too. They wound up doing both side rear seals, the pinion flange seal too cause the drive shaft was off and the differential fluid and all that as well as throwing on the new drive shaft. I had been curious, cause on my 2000 F150 I did at least one differential fluid change on it. Looking up the sticker on the door it looks like I have a limited slip with an H9 code under Axle, but when I spin the tires my rear end behaves like a conventional differential that my 2000 had; one tire spun one direction, the other went opposite. I'm wondering if maybe someone swapped back to a conventional axle, there is no axle tag on any of the bolts, my 2000 had them it was was very easy to determine what I had looking at those. Anyways, thanks for the video regardless, they are lifesavers!

[@nicopunk1]

I have a 2017 F350 DRW with the (3k) axle. how much friction modifier is required? I can't find any info on this. Thanks for the videos. They save me tons of money!

[@Yellwolf]

Cool! Test! Thanks

[@dougtv-woodworker4326]

Nice Video, Someone might become confused, when looking at their differential and seeing an electrical connector. They might assume that they have an electric locking differential, when in fact they are looking at the connector for the ABS brake sensor. Assuming they do the easiest way to drain oil by putting truck on ramps and dropping the cover. they would never know.

[@Bulldog532]

The abs sensor is never on the side of the diff case. The e-locker connector is on the side of the diff case as He explains it in the video.

[@kenj.8897]

Thank you so much

[@rodneydrake5308]

Thank you.

[@gsrfam6vb183]

What's up Makuloco, question I have a 01 F150 lariat 5.4L with the off road 4x4 package front diff. 8.8" and rear 9.75" with a 3.55 ratio and I want to install 38" or even 40" tires, I'm gonna upgrade gears to 4.88 and wanted to beef up the front and rear diff I was going Detroit locker rear and wanted to know what can I do to the front 8.8 diff so I can continue to use the vacuum selector set up, what do you recomend to do in the front? Thank you in advance, I've used your videos for so much man your awesome thanks for the channel great help, btw I'm in Puerto Rico.

[@austingoleman9431]

My rear end clutches are giving out looks like fun to change

[@carlosmiguel001]

Hello, thanks for your videos! one question, i have a 15 f150 5.0 with a conventional rear differential, can i install an electronic rear differential taken from another f150 same year but EcoBoost?

[@johnhammack12]

Thx again Brian...as I walk to my truck...lol

[@greenbus9]

......so,... I changed my gear lube a couple months ago, and recently it started grabbing when accelerating from a turn. I THOUGHT it was an open diff, but the wheels turn the same direction when suspended, so.... I ordered the friction modifier just now. Will I see any long term damage from driving this way?? I honestly did not think it was a limited slip. Man, what a timely video.....!!

[@FordTechMakuloco]

Dump that XL-3 in there immediately and hopefully with any luck it will take.

[@greenbus9]

@@FordTechMakuloco Yes, I put the magic juice in a couple weeks ago- it seems to be MUCH quieter now. Thanks SO MUCH for all your great videos- I have learned a TON!!

[@drostly3220]

Thanks again

[@EM-gh7lc]

@FordTechMaculoco Would you be able to advise on adding lockers to a specific Ford vehicle as well as pinion gear ratio change for a given tire size?

[@philstat100]

Thank You

[@samline144]

Really informative without using the doctor wording.

[@anthonyjcarolan3161]

Good to know

[@alb12345672]

I installed a Ford Trac Lok carbon fiber carried in my 96 explorer. Had 4.10 open. I filled it with Valvoline 75W140 (with the modifier) and it made a light but annoying rubbing noise in slow turns. I was hesitant but I added about 3/4 of the ford product and it is perfectly quiet now and works well. Are the carbon fibers supposed to be better than the regular clutches? I know in 2wd I couldn't move in the snow before(with the open), now I don't even need 4wd unless its a steep hill.

[@markh385]

What motor oil do u use for ford trucks I’ve been using mobile one full synthetic in my ford ranger what are your thoughts on the new ford ranger coming out my issue is that it only comes in a 4 cylinder a 2.3 is that the same engine in the mustang

[@davidribeca1745]

On a 2006 f250 when you replace the wheel bearing seals the manual requires bearing to be packed with grease. Since the differential requirements is for synthetic gear oil is synthetic gease required or will the regular long life grease from ford be compatible with the synthetic gear oil?

[@carstuffecoboost2.3mustang20]

This is a bit off subject, but it still pertains to ford differentials. I have a 2015 ecoboost mustang with the 3.15 limited slip differential. How long should I expect the traction lok or lsd to last? I had a Ford dealership change the differential fluid/friction modifier at about 48,000 miles.

[@davidgentry5044]

Also, H-9 will be on door tag. Limited Slip.

[@rickhagar2286]

Love your channel. my question is I have a 2006 F350 with a limited slip differential that I hate, I get stuck all the time plowing snow, I changed the diff oil and added the additive ,could you please suggest a upgrade I could do to improve the 4 wheel drive performance. Thanks

[@ronfazer2423]

Maybe Tires!

[@skyhawk21]

2012 f150 opened rear end 3.73, what weight of oil, older thinner stuff or heavier stuff not much towing? Better mpg? Used valvonline 75w140 with additive modifier be cuz it was cheapest, making noises and maybe getting too hot???

[@SteveP-vm1uc]

In your opinion, how dependable are the electronic locking rears???? Also, do you know what voltage it take to lock and unlock them?? I ask as a hot rodder for future fun... lol...

[@danielkavanaugh4544]

Thankyou.. I had mine serviced they found 3 chipped teeth and they the shop wanted to replace the whole rear end. I've think that maybe I'll just wait and see. The truck has 220k on it but has been babied since new

[@lost0187]

Hey just bought a 2016 Lincoln Navigator with axle code 3L I got under the truck looked at the rear carrier sticker and noticed the code was 3c73 not sure if I’m open diff or not but jacked up the rear had it in park and the wheels went the opposite way like a open diff? And this trucks vin on the parts website is limited slip. Just looking for advice do I have to have the vehicle in Neutral when testing?

[@OscarGarcia-tf6jg]

Hello Brian I have an 2001 f150 with a limited slip 2 wheel drive and when I turn one wheel one way the other wheel goes the Opposite way. Could that mean my clutch packs are worn and need replacing? Or could there be other issues it has 263,458 miles

[@johnwalters7415]

My manual says to use 75/90 in front and rear differential. But I have heard different from other people is 75/90 synthetic correct in both?

[@A.C.71]

Is an open differential the same as a limited slip and do both not require a friction modifier. I have a 2005 f150 with a little whining going on weather I'm on street or dirt roads..I've also put on brand new tires and the noise was there before the tire change.

[@jakesview4545]

If you have LSD do you have to add a separate thing of friction modification fluid even if the one gallon jug has limited slip additives in it already?

[@johnnydeep1051]

Hi, I have question regarding transmission parts of my 2011 ford fiesta. Can you please help me identify some parts so i can order it online. What is Clutch position Sensor and location? Where is Input Shaft Sensor located? Also Input Shaft Sensor Big? -Is Clutch Assembly same as Clutch Motor? How can I find the correct I hope you can help me with these. Many thanks