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The Ford spec is ESP-M2C154-A which is GL-5 80W90.
I use Amsoil 80W90 synthetic in my 87. Seems to work quite good as I have 240,000 on the truck & never had a problem with the differential.
I use the same oil in the manual trans & no problems with the trans either.
It's been a loooong time since I swapeed diff fluid & I cant remember if the diff has a drain plug or if I siphoned the old stuff out thru the fill hole.
Another approach is to remove the bolts that hold the differential cover in place, remove the cover, and let the lube drain. I'd encourage you to get a new gasket before doing this. Also, I'd recommend a synthetic fluid. Good luck.
if you have a clutch style limited slip differential (like a stock LSD) i'd highly recommend a conventional oil, to ensure continued operation of that LSD.
I have a 98 Ranger and have changed the differential oil twice. I remove the pan and let it drain. My truck calls for 80-90 in the differential and ATF in the manual transmission. I use silicone type sealer rather than a gasket. (I'm not sure if they even have a gasket anymore)
Last time I checked my parts store didnt even stock a gasket for an 8.8/7.5. I think standard procedure is to just use RTV, let it cure for 10 min on the pan, and then stick it on.
If you have a limited slip diff, make sure you use the friction modifier with your gear oil.
I don't know if I have limited slip differencle. I'll try to get a gasket and look. Is there another way to tell if it's a LSD?
TNX
Jack up the rear end with both wheels off the ground, the tranny in neutral, & the E-brake released. Rotate one rear wheel (by hand) and watch the other wheel. If the other wheel turns in the same direction as the one you're turning, the diff is a LSD. If the other wheel turns in the opposite direction, you have an "open" diff. (non-LSD).