How to change Transfer Case oil in a 2018 Toyota Tundra

Steve shows you step-by-step how to change the fluid in a 2018 Toyota Tundra transfer case. You’ll get specifics of all the tools, sealants, and lubricants used.
Below are Amazon Affiliate product links. Clicking a link will take you directly to Amazon's product page for that tool - it won't cost you anything, but will help to support this channel. Thanks for watching.
Here’s a link to the Tundra service manual on eManuals online: shrsl.com/4hf61
Ravenol MTF3 75W oil: amzn.to/3wbFoIA
Permatex 80632 Thread Sealant: amzn.to/3orqdIA
To see all of the tools that I use and recommend, visit the Tool Demos store: www.amazon.com/shop/tooldemos
As an associate, I earn from purchases.
#tooldemos
#diy

[@ToolDemos]

Below are Amazon Affiliate product links. Clicking a link will take you directly to Amazon's product page for that tool - it won't cost you anything, but will help to support this channel. Thanks for watching. Ravenol MTF3 75W oil: amzn.to/3wbFoIA Permatex 80632 Thread Sealant: amzn.to/3orqdIA

[@philippeducut9702]

Will the Ravenol MTF3 (Manual Transmission Fluid)be compatible with Automatic transmission?

[@ToolDemos]

@@philippeducut9702 the transfer case is sealed, so it will not share the same fluid as the transmission.

[@philippeducut9702]

@@ToolDemos I apologize for my vague question. My main concern is that the the Ravenol bottle shows as MTF and my Truck has an Automatic transmission, will this be a concern that I have to consider or it's still a good buy for my truck's transfer case?

[@ToolDemos]

@@philippeducut9702 ok, I understand. The exact fluid Toyota calls for is Toyota LF. It sells for $90 a quart and nobody (almost) uses it. Not even Toyota dealers. The manual allows for non-genuine fluid for this job, which is why I went looking in the aftermarket. The Ravenol fluid meets all of Toyota’s specifications for the transfer case, so I chose to use it. If it helps any, I’ve been running the truck with it for 25,000 miles now and had no issues at all.

[@tundra_king3051]

If anyone wanted to buy brand new plugs from Toyota with new thread sealant already on them, the part # is 36136-0C010 cost is about $8-9 and you'll want two of them.

[@dasfahrer8187]

Both of those plugs are meant to be replaced when doing this service, so thanks for posting the part numbers!

[@gregkeller80]

You’re the calmest hangry guy ever! Awesome video…my tundra go to guy now.

[@ToolDemos]

Haha! I remember that day. I didn’t factor the recording time to do that job. Mrs. S. took care of my lunch, so it worked out awesome.

[@gregoryolsson6668]

Will be doing exact same thing this weekend on my 2013 Tundra. Great job and good attention to detail.

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks, Gregory I appreciate you. Happy wrenching this weekend.

[@boomdoggy]

Very well presented and articulated!!! Gonna use your channel as my guide on my 2019 Platinum 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks BoomD0ggy, I really appreciate that. Happy wrenching on that ‘19 Tundra.

[@robertsimonofsky3959]

Excellent video. So natural and informative. Thank you

[@ToolDemos]

Thank you Robert, I appreciate that.

[@stanweiler4344]

Glad I watched your video, to inform me about the pipe plugs not needed to be tight. Mine were only in about 3 threads. My Tundra has approx 87,500 miles on it. The old fluid was very dark, and a brownish tint to it. Glad I changed it out. Thanks for all your video's. I have referred to many of your video's. They are very informative. Thanks again. You have saved me alot of money!!

[@ToolDemos]

That’s great to hear! See ya in the next one, happy wrenching.

[@carlo19782006]

Thanks for the video and info; did mine last night and the tool list helped. I used a boat outdrive oil change pump to fill the transfer case. It worked very well and at about $10 very affordable tool that makes the job easy and less messy. Also, while doing the service is worth checking the vent to ensure is not stuck. 2018 Tundra 1794 edition.

[@ToolDemos]

Well done!

[@wendystein5939]

Awesome video, thank you so much. I'm just over 60K on my Tundra so I will be doing the differentials and transfer case in the spring.

[@ToolDemos]

Right on Wendy! Glad to see you’re keeping your Tundra in tip-top shape.

[@theodorehile7921]

Great video on the fluid-swap process. I'll be performing the same service on my 2020 Tundra in a couple of days. One piece of advice from a former Loctite application specialist: The Loctite PST-series thread sealants will seal pipe threads (hand tightened only) to 150 psi immediately, and much higher when cured. Added benefits: Plugs won't back-out in service, nothing in the sealant, even if it mixes with the transfer case fluid, will harm or affect performance...and you don't really need to be too concerned about cracking the drain-plug hole boss on the casting since you won't need to apply a lot of tightening to get a good seal. I have been using the PST products on automotive threaded plug applications for years with no troubles. The PST tubes have a nice applicator tip on them, too...no mousing-around with those pesky brushes, and anything outside the actual joint-seal will remain liquid, and you can wipe it off if you wish.

[@ToolDemos]

I’ll add that to my list, thank you.

[@NutsandBoltswithTone]

Great video Steve. Some great tips there. Thanks for sharing.

[@ToolDemos]

I appreciate that, Tony. Have a good weekend.

[@Romo69]

You can count the threads before you take them out and get a very good idea of how much to tighten. Make a mark with a sharpie and your good

[@ToolDemos]

Good idea.

[@RobotDad]

I like the suggestion

[@luisreviews6412]

Well done 👍

[@alexanderstasny7898]

Great video. I just ordered

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks Alexander. Happy wrenching.

[@andyamysarizonaadventures5450]

Another nice thourow job , thank you

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks A&A. I appreciate that.

[@buckcowen3117]

Thanks! 2018 Platinum here.

[@ToolDemos]

Right on!

[@torque6389]

Great job!

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks

[@patrickturner270]

I was looking and Ravenol makes a product called "RAVENOL J1C1144-001 SAE 75W-85 Gear Oil - DGL Full Synthetic API GL-5 LS" that appears to be more specific to being gear/transfer case oil. They both meet Toyota's specs, but I wonder if one or the other is better or worse? Heck, I wonder if they're the same thing.

[@ToolDemos]

Toyota recommends straight 75W transfer case (LF or equivalent) oil for this application. The one you are looking at is a multi-weight and has limited slip additives that are unnecessary.

[@andyjackson9611]

Great video. Do you think teflon PFE tape would also work on the threads?

[@ToolDemos]

No, it’s made for water. I’m not a plumber, but I’d only use that stuff on water pipes. For automotive applications, stopping oil leaks, the product I showed is the standard.

[@jamesburroughs7248]

Please do one on power steering fluid replacement please

[@ToolDemos]

Ask and you shall receive: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKSbe35ql5iioKMsi=xNQEpS0M4h_uhftx

[@tunamon]

Great video! I purchased the manual with your code and don't see any notes about using sealant on the plugs. How did you know that you're supposed to apply a sealant and which type to use?

[@ToolDemos]

That’s a thread seal I keep in stock for this type of application. It’s much better than the PTFE tape when the threads are metal. I think Toyota puts ‘em in dry at the factory, but this has always been my habit.

[@gregbelial4613]

Hi ! wants to change oils in mechanisms and gearbox. tundra from January 2013 4wd 5.7 flex. I understand that oil with GL-5 specification is poured into the differential and reducer,: for egzample : millers 75w90. I understand that no additions to the mechanisms on limited slip are needed there? Thank you for your answer and best regards from Europe (Poland)

[@ToolDemos]

Hi Greg. For the differentials, Toyota recommends 75W85 GL5. No need to add friction modifiers. You can see my video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqWlqGVvl6Zpq8k for the rear. I am surprised that you have a Tundra in Poland, I thought they were all in North America.

[@gregbelial4613]

@@ToolDemos Thank you very much for your answer and help. Tomorrow I'm going to work. I imported the Tundre in 2018 from the USA - I found it online on the Toyota McGill website in Houston in great condition. I have a few cars, but I always dreamed of the tundra. I am very pleased because I am a motoring fan with good times (naturally aspirated engines, MPI injection, large capacity). I don't want to look at these new inventions :)

[@rudolphmadronich1467]

What ravenol fluid do you use for the rear differential and the front differential I have a 2017 tundra trd 4x4

[@ToolDemos]

Hi Rudolph. Toyota recommends a 75W85 GL5 for your differentials. Here’s an affiliate link for the Ravenol brand oil: amzn.to/34ffPKD. I did a video on the rear diff, you can watch it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqWlqGVvl6Zpq8k. Thanks for your question and happy wrenching.

[@RMSIN393]

I have a hand pump that screws onto the tops of the containers, can I use that for the transfer case, diffs, and trans changes? Thanks!

[@ToolDemos]

You can, yes. It will take some effort, but you’ll get there.

[@qualitytouch]

My 201 Tundra is a 4x4 but i never towed or hauled with it or used it in 4x4. it has 60k on it. I plan on doing the rear but is there a rush to do the transfer case?

[@ToolDemos]

The transfer case is under load any time the truck is moving (not just in 4x4). It is less stressed, but will still need a fluid change at some point.

[@jedeckert8912]

Can you use 75w90 gear oil like in the front and rear diffs?

[@ToolDemos]

My only guess is that they use the MT fluid for better fuel economy. Gear oil might work fine, but I usually stick to the book.

[@rh9967]

Have you had any issues using the Ravenol 75w? I’m about to change the fluid in my 2015 tundra and can’t decide whether to use the Toyota oem or Ravenol. Really don’t want to pay $160 for 2 liters for the oem and not even use all of it. Reading on the boards, some are saying it’s a waste of money, others saying absolutely don’t use anything other than the original fluid. Spoke with the dealership and they’re actually using Valvoline 75w-90. So, just curious if you’ve seen any difference.

[@ToolDemos]

Been using Ravenol for 60k miles now. No issues.

[@rh9967]

@@ToolDemos awesome - thanks for the info!

[@medcitymoto]

You pick up a catalytic converter shield for your Tundra yet? Would recommend, lots of good options! Doesn't interfere with too many service items requiring removal, I think transmission service is just about it.

[@ToolDemos]

No, but I have thought about it.

[@medcitymoto]

@@ToolDemos I would! Talons Garage is a great route to go, and the nut retention plate makes one-person install a breeze, can't recommend enough. I was on the fence about it until I saw the wait time and cost of getting replacement catalytic converters, ain't nobody got $3k+ and 8 months free, not when there's great solutions under $400.

[@ToolDemos]

@@medcitymoto I appreciate the recommendation.

[@owl331]

3 days ago had mine at the dealership. The next morning on the way to work I started hearing a winding sound. Called the service department and dropped it off it has been there overnight and have not heard back. Wish I would have found this video earlier

[@ToolDemos]

Ouch! Sorry to hear that Al. I hope they get it right for you.

[@owl331]

@@ToolDemos yep picked up last night. Brand new differential

[@ToolDemos]

@@owl331 I’m glad they made it right.

[@Juanca22221]

Hi TD, question. Did you feel any difference going 4L or 4H with Ravenol. I'M about to do the same and I want to be sure it is the same or better than original Toyota oil

[@ToolDemos]

Hi Juan. I haven’t ever used 4-low, but Mrs. S. has. Before the oil change, she had no problem getting it to work. I just went out to test it and it worked fine. Also remember that to shift into 4-low, transmission needs to be in neutral and keep your foot on the brake.

[@Juanca22221]

@@ToolDemos Thanks a lot

[@lrcreamer]

Don’t be spraying crap in the hole

[@Romo69]

@@lrcreamerbro a little break or engine cleaner isn’t going to hurt anything. Chill out boss

[@Vincegould]

Is there a torque spec on the plugs?

[@ToolDemos]

Borg Warner spec is 18ft/lbs.

[@bubba4072]

Great video! Thanks for putting these up. How has the thread sealant held up?

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks Bubba. Those plugs are still dry, sealant held up well.

[@JustinC114]

Just curious with you using aftermarket fluid, but you haven't noticed any weird noises or engagement issues since doing fluid change have you?

[@ToolDemos]

No, and the Tundra just turned over 100,000 miles with no problems at all.

[@Outdoor-Adventures]

Is there a reason why you pick this oil over OEM from Toyota? I also noticed you use a different oil for your rear differential. Thanks

[@ToolDemos]

Hi Mr robot. I tried the Toyota dealership, they don’t carry OE Toyota fluid. Ravenol is all I could find that meets the specs from Toyota. The Redline fluid I used for the differential was about half the price of Ravenol and meets Toyota specs, so I got that.

[@tonyellis6383]

@@ToolDemos So i'm going to try redline MT LV, which they say is a replacement for the toyota 75W.

[@ToolDemos]

@@tonyellis6383 should be a bit cheaper. Thanks for the tip.

[@eriknash8783]

Also, the Toyota branded oil is ~$80 per quart. The Ravenol is $20

[@csmaneval3285]

Permatex Thread sealant specs recommend to wait 24hours to add oil to the system. Not sure if you said that or maybe I missed it.

[@ToolDemos]

You’re right, I didn’t mention it. You are supposed to wait a day, but I don’t know anyone who does.

[@csmaneval3285]

Haha no doubt. I waited because its my backup vehicle.@@ToolDemos

[@csmaneval3285]

Great videos though keep em coming! @@ToolDemos

[@ToolDemos]

@@csmaneval3285 thanks much. I appreciate ya keeping me honest.

[@jeffconner3185]

My nitrile gloves rip when I look at them the wrong way. What gloves are you using that can handle a wire brush?

[@ToolDemos]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXWQg4Z4erd8gNE I uploaded this a few months ago. I think you’ll like it.

[@jeffconner3185]

@@ToolDemos You are ABSOLUTELY right. Ordered both :)

[@ToolDemos]

@@jeffconner3185 awesome!

[@andyhuang7526]

I thought it would be use more fluid than 2 quarts on transmission?

[@ToolDemos]

A fluid change on the transmission will be about 5 quarts. This is just the transfer case so you only need the two.

[@EverydayJ1786]

Another good option for oil is Royal Purple Syncromax . Meets Toyota's specs for the 75w .

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks, Jordan. I like having options.

[@eriknash8783]

Slick bottle design

[@qouavang3646]

What about rear diff?

[@ToolDemos]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqWlqGVvl6Zpq8ksi=6hMdDpydALFMM0LI

[@coloradoboo1071]

My document says to torque those plugs to 18 ft/lbs

[@ToolDemos]

Thanks, Colorado! I should have looked it up considering all of the whining I was doing.

[@coloradoboo1071]

@@ToolDemos Did mine today...old plugs seemed to come out way too easy! I cleaned them and used some high temp thread sealant I found at O'Reillys.

[@ToolDemos]

Awesome news Colorado! You might have one of those Tundras that go over 1 million miles.

[@coloradoboo1071]

@@ToolDemos Ha! No she’s our camper puller in the summer and for snowstorms so only 41,000 on her so far (2014)

[@bigd50]

@@coloradoboo1071do you put weight in the bed when driving in snow?

[@rudolphmadronich1467]

Why not take the small skid plate off first before you drain the transfer case it’s just 4 bolts. It will save you a lot of clean up.

[@ToolDemos]

The thought crossed my mind. In the end, I just shot some brake clean in there and it cleaned up okay.

[@nevmedeiros1822]

Where’s the Tundra playlist?

[@ToolDemos]

Hi Nev, thanks for asking me. I had no idea that the playlist was set to private. It’s fixed now.

[@nevmedeiros1822]

@@ToolDemos thank you haha ! Nice content keep it up

[@DARKNIGHT696969]

Big no no..need something more beefy those jack stands 😎

[@ToolDemos]

6 ton jack stands in front and 4 ton in the rear is not enough? The Tundra only weighs 3.5 tons.

[@stephenmcdonald7031]

60? Did u look at the book 30k? Says to replace it at 30k

[@ToolDemos]

You’re right it does say that. It’s under the special conditions section.

[@lrcreamer]

Wow purchase four ramps and drive the car up to elevate..jack stands can be scary

[@wildman4642]

Transfer case requires 2 litres and at Toyota dealers its $99 per litre. Total insanity!!!

[@ToolDemos]

Yeah, that is insane.

[@Chickennss]

Ravenol is not a direct equivalent to the Toyota fluid.

[@ToolDemos]

That’s true, they only claim that it meets Toyota’s requirements.

[@diagnoseguy]

From what I've researched it may be exactly the Toyota fluid. Toyota doesn't make it's fluids