C3 1981 rearend

[Ray Pierce]

how do you get the old gear lube out of the rearend when trying to change to new I have searched 3 manuels with no help

[Jack H.]

Re: C3 1981 rearend

Typically, it's 'sucked' out using a manual or automatic pump...

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 1981 rearend

Ray-----

As Jack describes, the only practical way is to remove it with a suction device. Some folks will advise that it can be done by loosening the bolts fastening the carrier to the cover (cover is integral with crossmember for 81) and letting the fluid drain out. Don't do this if anyone suggests it.

[Jim T.]

Re: C3 1981 rearend

To give a little more room to perform the operation of removing the rear end lubricant with my suction gun I remove the passenger rear tire. I let the left rear sit a little lower with the tire removed to help get the old lubricant pooled towards the passenger side so I can get as much of it removed as possible. What does your 81 owners manual have as when to change the rear end lubricant? My 70 owners manual has 36,000 miles or sooner if needed.

[Mike R.]

Re: C3 1981 rearend

Ray

I took my 82 to the local Quick Lub place. They had the magic device to suck the old lubrication out. Not having a lot of faith in these guys, I stood there to make sure they really did it, that the proper limited slip additive was additive (to be safe I took it with me), and the original red tag got put back. It is worth the money in that the plug is hard to get at without a hoist and unless it is stone cold it is easy to get burned.

Mike

[John H.]

Re: C3 1981 rearend

Interestingly enough, the Shop Manual "Lubrication" section, from at least '67-up, says the axle lube is permanent, "good for the life of the vehicle"; of course, they never envisioned a 40-year "life".