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More 89 XJ Q's - What gear lube?

I'll be changing the oil in the diffs, t-case, and 5spd trans in my 89 4 liter Cherokee with 126k.

What I would like to know is what wt/brand of oil for each. Rear axle is a

10 bolt (Which model is that?). I live in a mild climate (Seattle area), but I do travel into freezing temps occasionaly, and I will be going off-roading in this Jeep. It has stock tires as of now, but after a 3" lift, I will be getting 31" tires.

Does synthetic gear lube really offer a measureable amount of protection to gears, t-case and trans? I don't have a problem buying it if it does.

Anything abnormal about changing the fluids on an XJ? (I have done all the drains and refills before, just not on an XJ).

Are there any additives I need to mix with the oil?

Thanks,

Carl

Reply to
Carl Saiyed
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Reply to
attnews

Yes, my first Jeep. Not my first 4x4 rig. I was told that 31's would clear with a 3" lift on an XJ. Is it a super tight fit? I'm not sure I understand the problem with a 3" lift and 31's?

thanks,

Carl

Reply to
Carl Saiyed

Hi Carl,

Your front end is a Dana 30. Your rear end is probably a Dana 35. If you're lucky it's a Dana 44:

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The Dana 35 axles shafts are known to twist off and break near the differential when large tires and a locker are used on big rocks. If you use 31" tires, no locker, and go light on the gas, your dana 35 should hold up fine.

Also note that your differential gears likely have a 3.07 ratio which will mean lower rpms and sluggish performance with the larger 31" tires. You could probably tolerate it with the manual trans though.

Lubes rated 'GL5' are not recommended for your manual transmission. RedLine MTL or Pennzoil Synchromesh are what you want. The Pennzoil stuff is also repackaged and sold by GM and Chrysler dealerships.

The tcase wants ATF.

Use GL5 rated 75W-90 or 80W-90 in your differentials. No additives required.

Steve

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Carl Saiyed wrote:

Reply to
Steve

Carl,

A three inch lift on an XJ is perfect for 31" tires. No need to trim fenders. You could fit these tires with less lift by adjusting bump stops and trimming fenders & flares if so inclined.

Avoid kits that use blocks and spacers. Budget for a 3" kit that replaces your old, tired rear leaf packs as opposed to the 'add-a-leaf' type. A good kit will include new lower control arms to maintain positive caster in front. I bought Rubicon Express and can recommend it.

Steve

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Carl Saiyed wrote:

Reply to
Steve

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Kevin in San Diego

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