Guys I have a 2001 f-150 5.4L 4x4. I had to replace the front axle housing tube and lost some fluid. I need to re-file the front axle housing but I'm not sure how or how much or what type of fluid to use. Can anyone make any suggestion on how to do this? I thought I was a pain to replace the front axle housing tube, but I have no clue how to get the fluid back into the axle front housing. Thanks

MP

 

Anyone? Hmm?

 

On mine (99 w/ the 5.4 also.) the front axle is an 8.8, and has two plugs clearly labeled "Fill" and "Drain"

Park the vehicle on level ground, and stick a 3/8" ratchet in the "Fill" plug, and unscrew it. Fill with fluid until it starts coming out, then replace the plug.

Should be good to go with that.

Again thats assuming you have the same front end, but Im pretty sure it would have a fill plug anyway.

 

Thanks Steve. I was reading my shop manual and it says to use Use Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 Premium 4x4 Front Axle Lubricant XY-75W90-TQL or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSP-M2C201-A. What are you guys using in your front Axle?

 

im runnin amsoil in the diffs right now. 75w-90 i think, and 75w-140 in the rear. hope you find the fill plug. try scrapin the mud and gunk off. you should be able to see the plug on the front of the diff cover.

 

If you are topping off the factory fill, use the Ford fluid. If you are going to change the fluid, use anything that meets specs, I recommend 75W90 synthetic.

 

Good rule of thumb. Always remove the Filler Plug first. Not the drain.
I case you can not remove the filler plug you will not be stuck with a dry differential.
Cheers !

 

That's exactly right. Unless of course you have "tools of persuasion."

I use either Royal Purple or Amsoil gear lubes in the respective weights. They are both cheaper than the MC brand and both are still synthetic.