finned dif covers
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Joined: Mar 2010
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From: Kearns, UT
The differential covers & transmission pans in question are typically made out of aluminum. Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat. Steel isn't. The fins act like a radiator - as the air passes over them it has a cooling effect which in turn cools the oil inside.
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From: Middleburg, FL
That wasn't the question posed by the OP. No one is trying to allude there is a heating problem. Do finned covers keep the fluid temps lower? Yes. Are they needed? That's up for debate. If you're towing heavy often, I'd recommend them for piece of mind. If you're not towing heavy, then it's more of preference (mainly looks). However, I find it interesting that Ford added a finned cover on the diff of the 2008 and up trucks.
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From my reading, the finned AL rear diff covers are an improvement, and do reduce fluid temps.
I also remember a post back in the day where MK posted the finned trans pans weren't as effective, and not necessary. The trans cooler is much more efficient.
I also remember a post back in the day where MK posted the finned trans pans weren't as effective, and not necessary. The trans cooler is much more efficient.
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2010
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That wasn't the question posed by the OP. No one is trying to allude there is a heating problem. Do finned covers keep the fluid temps lower? Yes. Are they needed? That's up for debate. If you're towing heavy often, I'd recommend them for piece of mind. If you're not towing heavy, then it's more of preference (mainly looks). However, I find it interesting that Ford added a finned cover on the diff of the 2008 and up trucks.
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Joined: Nov 2008
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From: CA Sacramento
Upgrading the oil will actually decrease heat from from the start, friction.
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From: AZ
Ford found it necessary to add the finned dif cover to almost all 08 up superduties so I think there must be something to it ?
< Samantha...my Co-Pilot
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 768
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From: Fallon, Nevada
The covers I have add fluid capacity and make fluid changes very easy in comparison to the stock covers. I can not substantiate with any fact that they run cooler (don't have temperature data), but it is my belief that they do because of the finned aluminum construction. Plus they do look nicer...these are my reasons for them.
More Turbo
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 722
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From: New Orleans to San Diego
That with syn fluid is a nice upgrade on a budget