DIY gearbox and axle oil change

This simple operation only takes you a little over an hour. To do it yourself you don’t need much: an open-end spanner or a ratchet spanner and the corresponding socket, an oil collection tray, an oil syringe, not forgetting the joints for the new drain and filler plugs.les joints des bouchons de vidange et remplissage neufs.

This oil change should be carried out between 40 and 50,000 km depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. This has to be done more often if your 4x4 is exclusively used for off-roading through mud, water, etc.

If you’re a beginner DIY mechanic, an oil change consists of replacing the oil that lubricates the inside of the gearbox, transfer and the axle. Over time this oil degrades and loses its properties.

Doing the oil change yourself will save you time and money. All you need to do is buy the oil and joints if necessary.

Note: This article is for manual model gearboxes.

Gearboxes and transfer boxes have two plugs: one for filling and checking the level and the other for emptying.

The first plug is located more or less halfway up the side of the gearbox and on the back of the transfer case.

The second plug is located on the bottom and side of the transmission and on the back of the transfer case.

Axles, like the gear and transfer boxes, also have two plugs.

The first plug is located more or less halfway up the axle, on the front of the front axle and on the rear of the back axle.

The second plug is under the axles.

To do the gearbox and axle oil change, unblock the drain plug then loosen and remove the filler plug. Then remove the drain plug without forgetting to position an oil collection pan underneath.

Advice: Driving your vehicle round the block before doing the oil change will make the job easier,  the oil is more fluid and flows more easily.

Note: Dispose of the used oil at your local collection point.

Removing the gearbox plug.

The gearbox drain plug is located on the side at the bottom of the gearbox.

The gearbox, transfer box and axle are best filled with an oil syringe or an oil transfer kit that consists of an electric pump and a hose. The most common way to do it is with an oil syringe.

Note: Even experienced mechanics can forget so remember to replace the drain plug and a new seal before filling.

Filling with an oil syringe.

Filling using an electric pump + hose kit.

Oil is an essential element for the proper functioning and longevity of gearboxes, transfer cases and axles. It prevents friction within the joints of moving parts.

Over time the oil in your gearbox and axle deteriorates so it's essential to change it regularly to protect your 4x4.

Gearbox & axle oil

Tutorial made with the participation of Alix and Gauthier - Pumba Overland