How to Change Your Differential Oil (Cheater Method) - Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.7L

This is being performed on a 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with the 4.7.
****WARNING****
I must warn all that watch this, that this is not the recommended way of doing it. The correct way is to completely remove the differential covers, clean out the inside of the differential, then use RTV to form a new gasket and replace the cover so you can refill it. I chose the suction method for I change my oil more than the factory recommends, so I am not as worried about a little left over residue oil.
Another advantage of taking the diff cover off is that you can inspect your gears. You would also look for metal shavings, gear tooth wear problems, chipped teeth, etc.
Warning: I am not a professional and not held liable on any damages to any vehicle that you work on or have someone work on. This is only for demonstration purposes on how I have done work on my own vehicle and may have left out some critical information. Please refer to your dealer before performing any maintenance or work on your own.

[@jbrunsonjr]

To see what you have, you can pop the cover off and if you have spider gears, it is an open diff, if not, you need to look at the differential and check the internet to see what you have. You can also jack up both wheels of the axle and spin it. If the other wheel spins the opposite direction, you have an open dif, not a limited slip. Hope this helps!

[@sc32valve]

Screaming at my phone the whole time you were changing the front diff fluid.... There's a drain plug!!!! Ahhhhhhhhhhh

[@adlsp]

If you have a skid plate like I do, it's pretty easy to remove this hard plastic thing to make the job doable. There are four 13mm bolts, two in the back have to come off. The bolts in the front, just loosen, then slide the skid plate forward and the front of the skid plate drops down through the front washer holes. You may want to clean it and put it on the side while you finish the oil change or front differential service. Putting the skid plate back is the reverse procedure as taking it off.

[@spazmoso]

if your lookin for metal shavings take a small flex magnet and insert it in and drag the bottom or the resivoir,if youve got some metal fragments.take it off and inspect properly,this is good for fluid change but to see whats going on is critical for proper maintanance

[@jbrunsonjr]

Yup, that is an easy fix, just take the cover off (maybe 8 or 10 bolts), clean it out, put on the cover with either a new gasket or a gasket made of RTV, bolt it on, fill it up and you are set to go! It might be leaking due to it being bent, so take a straight edge to make sure it's not bent or it will leak again. This can happen from dragging it over a rock. I hope this helps! : )

[@jbrunsonjr]

No problem - thank you for watching!!!

[@petedesimone]

thanks, I will give it a try on my 2001 jeep GC. i actually used a similar method on my 1973 TR-6 on the gearbox and rear end. ( that was 35 years ago and i can still smell the gear oil ) I have the same red pump but have to buy the small one. great video

[@lauradahlus]

Thanks for the Help! I just changed the fluid and gasket today. So far no leaks.. I don't have a torque wrench, so had to guess on the tightness of the bolts. The front one isn't leaking so I will just drain and refill. :)

[@jbrunsonjr]

LOL, glad I could help ya! One thing, if this is an older vehicle, I would HIGHLY recommend taking the cover off and cleaning it out/check out the inside. You will need to look for metal shavings/water in the oil (milky colored), etc. Good luck!! Oh, and enjoy the smell. : )

[@JF-tt8db]

Great video. Thanks! I've got a 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee. You've given me the confidence to do it on my own.

[@JohnDoe-gm5qr]

+JF1902 Changing fluids is easy. I do the fluid on my 06 Jetta 2.5 and it is really not hard despite that being a "sealed" transmission. They are no different from one that has a dipstick except that there is no easy way to change the fluid. The worst thing is they BS you into thinking it is a lifetime fluid. I have never seen a fluid that lasts a lifetime. Even if I am on my deathbed I will scoff at "lifetime" fluids!!!!

[@pleal1]

My 2002 jeep wrangler X needs a fluid change it's pretty dirty and dark and has not been changed since 02 I found out . we bought it in 07 from a BMW dealer ship, but I think I better just remove the cover and re-seal it. This is a good video on how to change it regularly before it gets really dirty. Thanks for the video!

[@jbrunsonjr]

I was looking at those (have had a couple old CJ7's), but got a KILLER deal on this one that I just couldn't pass up at the height of the gas crunch. Post up whatever they end up getting!

[@jon7723]

Neat been wanting to do this a little olds not gonna hurt just gonna need to change it again sooner. Thanks fam

[@jbrunsonjr]

Thanks man! It's greatly appreciated as always!

[@jbrunsonjr]

@pleal1 - Anytime, I am glad I could help! I would definitely take the covers off if it has been that long. Also read all of the comments below - there are lots of great tips and suggestions as well. Happy Jeeping!

[@jbrunsonjr]

I would recommend picking up some friction additive for the limited slips, for it does grab a little hard - I have been meaning to, but just haven't gotten around to it yet.

[@lstruggy]

Easy peasy! So pop rear doff cover drain n fill and front use 14M for plug drain then refill 👍🏽 btw are 2 quarts enough for the rear diffs and 2 quarts as well enough for the front diffs & finally 2 quarts also enough for the transfer case? Greta video! How’s the jeep doing atm? My 07 jgc laredo 4x4 has 234K and still runs amazing!

[@stevenbrenning7330]

Man you are awesome brother i was trying to find this out and it was bugging me car is making a whirring noise due to low transaxle fluid

[@nezarnuaimat]

Great vid, but I would accelerate it on some events to shorten overall length!

[@PaloSouvannavong]

I have a 2000 jeep grand cherokee how often show i change this differential oil and also the transmission fluid & filter? Thanks for the video, you inspired me to do my own mechanic work.

[@adlsp]

@anonuhmys. make sure its a short stubby 14 hex bit. There is not much space there. I just did my front diff today and the hex bit I bought was too long. Had to rush (car was on ramps) down to Northern Tools just before they closed and got the 14mm hex wrench which I knew they had in stock. Was able to finish the job with the hex wrench. The back diff is the easiest, the transfer case just a matter of drain/fill, and the front the "hardest."

[@jonburton8054]

Well.... thanks for that! Yep... guess what im doing right now

[@jbrunsonjr]

@samiyosho - It is a 2006, but the principles are the same for a 2005 except that the 1995 has solid axles front and rear as opposed to only rear for my Grand. Just ask the local parts store what gear oil to buy and have at it front and rear! With that old of a vehicle, I would recommend removing the covers, though. Make sure to inspect all the pieces to make sure all looks in check. Should only take you two hours front and rear as a first timer. :)

[@jbrunsonjr]

Are you doing a Ring and Pinion swap, or just changing the fluid. Either way, good luck!! : )

[@jbrunsonjr]

@laurajdahl - Congratulations!! So was it as hard as you were thinking it was going to be? Kudos to you!

[@jbrunsonjr]

Yeah, without the deal it is pretty expensive, but seriously, I put it in and my engine ran smoother. My buddy just did it in his 2000 Jetta and told me his did the same exact thing - that's worth it in my book...

[@greglegras5459]

Any suggestions on where to check what I'll need .... new to jeeps

[@lauradahlus]

I CHANGED IT!!!! YEAH!!!!! NO LEAKS AND WORKS PERFECT! Now I have to do the front.... ;O

[@fdbg39]

since it is not a job you tackle very often synthetics offer longer life. Also, if you do tow, go off road or just use your 4x4 often due to where you live synthetics offer better protection and cooler temps of components.

[@jbrunsonjr]

@MrTwinsrule You want to check for potential upcoming damage, such as metal shavings from bearings or gear wear. I was just feeling lazy and decided to do my cheater method for this change. I am in need to do it again and will take the cover off this time...

[@jbrunsonjr]

Are you looking at replacing the Ring and Pinion gears or the whole differential?

[@jbrunsonjr]

YEah, different people have different views on motor oil, so it's up to each person's opinion. I like the stuff and immediately noticed a difference when I used their motor oil, so I am sold. I hate going to most stealerships because unless you stand over them, you never quite know what kind of work you are going to get. The mopar stuff is ok, so I don't mind. Just make sure that if you pick up the additive if you have limited slips. Happy Jeeping!

[@jbrunsonjr]

Not in my case - the local PepBoys always has it on sale with a filter and is the ONLY product I have poured i have poured into my engine that immediately made it run smoother. To each their own. Oh, and I have done enough research to trust this product, not just watched a tv commercial.

[@keithwhittington5209]

I just changed my front and found there is a lower and upper plug. Didn't have to siphon out the liquid it drained completely.

[@jbrunsonjr]

Thanks, Pete! Yeah, once you smell that gear oil, you will never forget it (that's for sure!!). If you need any help, feel free to drop me a line anytime! Jack

[@jbrunsonjr]

Yup, that's it! Doesn't get much simpler than that! : )

[@Peregar4ik]

How often do you have to change that oil in grand cherokee 2.7crd? And how to know if its limited slip or not? Never had a jeep or 4x4 before(

[@jbrunsonjr]

Yeah, people would be shocked at how often they pay for service that the never get. If I ever pay, I walk over and watch so they know I am on top of it. As for the off road lights, it wasn't really that hard - I'll try and do a video for ya on them!

[@MrTwinsrule]

I agree But I hate using that rtv? stuff? But I will take the cover off next time. Thanks.

[@jbrunsonjr]

There is no dealer anywhere near my house, so getting the dealer oil is a long trip, so I just go to PepBoys and get RPurple due to ease of access.

[@ed_word_6198]

So you used 2 quarts in the rear and 1 quart in the front?

[@jbrunsonjr]

@lawrieskipper - Glad I could help!

[@lauradahlus]

Did you put any tape on the bolt when your replaced it?

[@jbrunsonjr]

It all depends on if I go wheeling in water or not, but I would say every 10k or 15k miles...

[@lauradahlus]

My rear Diff is leaking from between the gasket and cover... So I have to replace the gasket and oil.. Is it possible to remove the cover without taking apart the entire 97 Jeep Wrangler TJ Sport? Thanks!

[@craftpaint1644]

Don't buy too much oil. My Jeep Grand Cherokee diffs only used about 2 and a half bottles of 75-140 Royal P for both total. The task takes about two hours. Edit: the hex on the front diff plugs is 14 mm

[@jbrunsonjr]

@multiplx - Yeah, I totally saw the drain after I finished posting this video. Talk about a "Doh!" moment!!

[@petedesimone]

BTW how do I know if my 2001 GC has LSD and requires the rpurple with the additive ?

[@stadiumstatus23]

i need to replace the differential, were can i go to learn how to do it? i cant find any videos. thanx

[@lauradahlus]

Thanks for your answer... This may be a stupid question.. But Im a girl, so I'm gonna ask it.. How do you know if you have a limited slip diff? I own a 97 jeep wrangler TJ Sport with I6 4.0L and automatic tranny.. THANKS!

[@lauradahlus]

My question now is this: My front Diff only has ONE hole for filler... I can't tell what type of "bolt/screw" it is... It looks like a square hole.. Four sides... does anyone know what I use to get the plug off? THANKS BUNCHES!!!!

[@hugostiglitz8465]

How does that stupid plug stop water from getting in when u submerge the diff?

[@jbrunsonjr]

I could, but I fit under there just fine. If this wasn't a 4x4, I would definitely have jacked it up.

[@lauradahlus]

How would you know if you have a limited slip?

[@jbrunsonjr]

@FOXYGIRL1982 - Almost! I got the whole set at Northern Tool for only like $20 or $30. Oh, and on the front diff, I totally missed a drain plug on the passenger side of the housing. Oops!

[@dukenukem5768]

The worse of the crap, like any metal filings from worn gears, will be at the bottom of the case and are unlikely to be picked up by this syphon method. You need the cover right off for that.

[@jbrunsonjr]

You are absolutely correct. I usually do, but if I am in a hurry, I will do it this way. I really should have pointed that out in the video. Thank you for watching!

[@suplay555]

jack you call the extention a cheater bar or thats wut we call it in the navy :)

[@jbrunsonjr]

It all depends on what's in the diffs. I would check the website WKJEEPS and also the forums on the JEEPSUNLIMITED website. By comparing info on these sites with the RPurple site, you should be able to make sure you are in the clear! : )

[@dominionsk8r1]

Did you put all 3 quarts in there?

[@lauradahlus]

THANKS! ;)

[@jbrunsonjr]

Yeah, I really lucked out on this truck...

[@MrTwinsrule]

If your Diff is not damaged? Why remove the cover? All I know is Syn fluid is a must in jeeps!

[@jbrunsonjr]

I filled it up until it came out the hole - I think it was about 2.5 qt's.

[@Riddledrome]

how do I find out if I need limited slip additive or not? where does it say?

[@jbrunsonjr]

Riddledrome You will need to look it up. You dealer should be able to tell you or not. Easiest way is to pop off the diff cover in order to see. After that, you will know for all other changes. :)

[@jbrunsonjr]

Teflon tape? Yes, I put it on the threads of the bolt before reinstalling it. I know you don't have to, I just figure it is extra insurance....

[@joshuamoore24_7]

How did the Royal Purple work? The manufacturer recommends Mopar 75w140 full synthetic gear oil only plus the limited slip additive for C200f, C200 FE, C213R, and C213RE.

[@jbrunsonjr]

Love it - still us it to this day. My diff did not have limited slips, so I did not use the additive. 👍

[@joshuamoore24_7]

@@jbrunsonjr Ok, well mine has the ELSD differentials Quadra Drive II. I am going to use the limited slip additive Mopar MS-10111 and the Mopar 75w140 full synthetic gear oil in my trucks differentials. It is a 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 5.7 liter.

[@joshuamoore24_7]

@@jbrunsonjr I have the specs for the bolt torques and some for the 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee on my KZbin channel the one with two bottles of limited slip additive it's in the description section.

[@joshuamoore24_7]

I made a video of changing the fluid on my differentials. The description has a bunch of torque specs for the bolts and fluid amounts for ELSD, limited slip, and non limited slip differentials.

[@jbrunsonjr]

@@joshuamoore24_7 Awesome! I will check it out!!

[@jbrunsonjr]

@spazmoso - Very good point!!!!

[@JohnDoe-gm5qr]

I thought the rubber plug was odd. I a normally see a metal one that a 3/8" ratchet would fit into or a hex key.

[@jbrunsonjr]

+John Doe Yeah, tell me about it. That was a first for me as well.

[@JohnDoe-gm5qr]

JBrunsonJr I wonder if that can be thread tapped and a normal drain plug used. The only problem would be keeping the shavings out of there or they may be likely to cause problems.

[@mattmatt115]

lol yeah ok there. first time differential installer, great!

[@jbrunsonjr]

@adlsp Thanks for the tips!!

[@jbrunsonjr]

That is the general rule of thumb, but always check the manual in your glove compartment just to make sure. I'd hate to tell you that and you have some weird design that I didn't know about!

[@revolversntulips]

Good clip! But like someone mentioned it would benefit from editing. For example cut away 10 sec here and there before you got the right light and focus. Other than that great.

[@jbrunsonjr]

+revolversntulips Yeah, I made this a looong time ago. Gotta keep it short, sweet, and to the point. Thanks for watching!

[@jbrunsonjr]

Good question! I am not sure about the oil, but check wkjeeps.com or the forums on the JeepsUnlimited website and I am sure you'll find your answer. As for the limited slip, just take the cover off and if you see spider gears, you have an open diff...

[@Meekerextreme]

The red pump is $7.98 at Wal-Marts, I could not find the other pump you used.

[@larrybensley9410]

Napa or other parts stores have them

[@MattsRageFitGarage]

oh ok lol it's just at my walmart it's 9 bucks a quart for royal purple motor oil !

[@vegasfordguy]

The correct way would be to pull the cover off & do it right the first time.

[@Bloodr3ad]

I took my cover off and honestly there was no need, wasted my time. If you've had your cover off at least once and haven't beaten on the vehicle since then, this method should do just fine for your next go at it.

[@lauradahlus]

@chevycamaro210 YAY!!! I CHANGED BOTH DIFF OIL!!! :)

[@xdwhit]

Great Vid!!!! No Offense, you sound a bit like Kermit the Frog!!! Haha Wicked Cool man!

[@MarcoTUV]

SAE 75W- ????

[@larrybensley9410]

75 140 in the rear from takes 75 90 gear oil

[@Joeasia1981]

WoW i have 1999 Grand cherokee and the rear differential is a son of a bitch to get to, cause of the gas tank your is so easy.

[@txcountryaggie]

yea, try Lone Star lol

[@jbrunsonjr]

@eddvii - LOL!!

[@devilxdude]

It's really not hard to change it the right way!

[@jbrunsonjr]

The easiest way is to just take the cover off, but you could also swing by a dealer and they should be able to run your VIN for free and let you know. You don't have to get RP - you can get any brand of gear oil, just get the correct weight. If you have a LSD, you can pick up small bottles of the additive if you want and it might be cheaper for ya. Check out the website JEEPSUNLIMITED in the WJ forum and hopefully they can help ya out a little....

[@fordwindsor351]

From what you said, you are changing your rear end oil way too often.

[@hotone23]

Respond to this video... Synthetic fluid is NOT a must on Jeep Diffs unless you tow. Any regular gear oil works as long as you buy the Mopar Additive for Traclock systems. If you want to spend the $ use synthetic. Check your owners man...synthetics often require a different weight than the Dino because they produce more heat.

[@jbrunsonjr]

Go to the forums on the webpage jeepsunlimited and they will have the right answer for ya. Sorry I don't have the correct information for you!

[@jbrunsonjr]

LOL, I'll try not to!

[@MattsRageFitGarage]

you use royal purple motor oil ? waste of money !!!

[@CharlieDoan]

Jeep dealer mechanic will CRY if they see YOU CHEATED this ways! flat rate hour get kill right here by your 2 ways pump in/out Hahaha......Royal purple kind of waste money to let it MIXED with not completely drain out so the dirty oil mix with nice and expensive oil ! ( I do not care YOUR JEEP..not mine) just few words for fun!

[@CharlieDoan]

cost too much time and must replace the ........ and may LEAKS!! If you change oil every year or after OFFROAD then OK this way..BEST PARTS are NO LEAKS from gaskets! agree..of course some old oil will mix with NEW NICE ONE!! but rich boys and lazy like this guy make sense and do not care are NORMAL! better than doing nothing