Chev S-10 Question

[Richard B.]

I've gotten used to the maintenance schedule on my 82 Bowtie, but I have a question about my 03 S-10, 4.3 ltr, 5 speed, 4WD. And I see some pretty sharp guys here! How often should I change the oil in the differentials? At 22k miles, one is brownish color, the other more gray. The owner's manual does not mention it at all, except to check the level.

If I drive 20k miles per year, is there anything else that should be changed on an annual basis? Thanks for your help!!!!!

[Mike M.]

Re: Chev S-10 Question

i've had s-10s since they came out in 83 and i've gotten in the habit of changing differential lubricant every 50k miles if they aren't towing or pulling heavy loads in which case i change every 25k miles. on the full size chevy pickups that are tow vehicles, i change every 25 k miles. had a 91 1/2 ton with posi and i blew a pinion seal on way to one of the national conventions while towing at 75-80 mph. not long afterwqards, one of the axle bearings craped it self. hard to believe , but there was no axle bearing race in the banjo, it's just machined to accept the naked bearing. ya loose an axle bearing on the 88 to at least 94 HALF TON chevys, you'll have to replace the axle housing as well. since that experience, i've always ordered the 3/4 ton chevy 4x4's and opting for the optional 1 ton rear which has floating bearings and races. i also use mobile synthetic gear oil in my front and rear differentials and add a can of kwell posi addative(spermaceti derivative) to the rears which are limited slip diff.s mike--love those chevy trucks.

[Dick W.]

Re: Chev S-10 Question

Richard, I would bet the gray is the front differential. The color would lead me to believe that it has moisture in it. My highway trucks usually get the differential, transfer case, and transmission changed every two years or 50,000. Ever which comes first. My heavy work trucks get the same annually. I use synthetic lubes in all gear boxes. I find that the rear axle lube in them is very dark and the front axle looks brand new when I change them. I have never worn anything out with excess maintenance.. I am used to getting 250,000 + miles on components with out excessive costs.

[John Daly]

Re: Chev S-10 Question

Richard,
Here's what the service manual says: It also specifies GM part number 10953626
lube with no friction modifier..
** Drive axle service.

Check fluid level and add fluid as needed. If driving in dusty areas or when towing a trailer, drain fluid and refill every 25 000 km (15,000 mi).

Locking Differential--Drain fluid and refill at first engine oil change. At subsequent oil changes, check fluid level and add fluid as needed. If driving in dusty areas or towing a trailer, drain fluid and refill every 25 000 km (15,000 mi).

More frequent lubrication may be required for heavy-duty or off-road use.

[Richard B.]

Chev S-10 Question

THANKS to all. I think I'll go to an annual change, as I rarely tow a trailer, and only wish I could do more off road driving! I knew this was the place for the straight gouge!

Regards.....