Diff fluid swap

**Naaman** · 12-08-2018, 08:31 AM

I'm shopping at Amsoil website right now for the upcoming maintenance on my car.

Haven't done the diff fluid in quite a while, so looking at doing that.

A couple of questions:

Does anyone use an aftermarket girdle with a drain plug? I'm thinking about getting one. Any recommendations as far as material/construction/brand?

Amsoil says LSD friction modifier is not necessary unless there is gear chatter. What do you guys run? Always use additive or only as needed? I'm still on the stock 10-bolt.

***SMWS6TA*** · 12-08-2018, 09:25 AM

I have a Moser cover for my 8.8. No complaints.

**sjgreen6** · 12-08-2018, 07:30 PM

I have the TA Performance cover. Drain plug is a nice feature but it really isn't difficult to do the service with the stock cover. The girdle studs are a nice touch, but not at all sure if they will really do anything to prevent damage. Mainly this is a nice looking dress up part over the stock cover. As to the additive, I always use the GM recommended stuff. Does it need it? I'd rather use it than find out it needed it when I cause unnecessary damage. Like everyone with a 10 bolt, make it last as long as you can and start saving now for the inevitable 12 bolt or 9 Inch that you will eventually need when the 10 bolt finally dies.

**pajeff02** · 12-09-2018, 01:42 AM

I run the Moser aluminum cover with bearing supports. It's a nice looking piece and fluid changes are a snap. However, this is on a Moser 12 bolt with a True Trac posi unit and not the stock 10 bolt. Running a friction modifier should not be required, although there are posts that indicate that it can be run in a stock differential to address a "rusty screw" noise that can sometimes occur.

**Naaman** · 12-11-2018, 03:45 PM

Thanks, guys. I was noticing that many of the covers add an additional 1/2 pint or so to capacity, which would make more room for fluid/additive, theoretically reducing operating temperatures and thus theoretically extending component life span.

**sjgreen6** · 12-13-2018, 06:02 AM

I was also of the opinion that more fluid is better, but recently saw this video from Gale Banks that has made me really thing twice about it, at least as far as axle covers go. Some of the covers may not be designed to direct the fluid well when the vehicle is in motion.

**sam I am** · 11-15-2021, 04:33 AM

I have a T/A girdle, and run straight 140W GL4 with a friction modifier.

**desmond** · 03-02-2022, 09:22 PM

Originally Posted by sjgreen6

I have the TA Performance cover. Drain plug is a nice feature but it really isn't difficult to do the service with the stock cover. The girdle studs are a nice touch, but not at all sure if they will really do anything to prevent damage. Mainly this is a nice looking dress up part over the stock cover. As to the additive, I always use the GM recommended stuff. Does it need it? I'd rather use it than find out it needed it when I cause unnecessary damage. Like everyone with a 10 bolt, make it last as long as you can and start saving now for the inevitable 12 bolt or 9 Inch that you will eventually need when the 10 bolt finally dies.

My friend is looking to get TA Performance cover for his 8.8 project!. Looks like Moser cover with bearing support is a good choice. I'm coming over tomorrow to help him install the new bumper, bull bars, and suspension on his current truck project.