2WD rear differential capacity and gear oil type?

[IdahoDoug]

Is there a handy service manual in front of anyone they could list the weights and capacity of my 88 Van Wagon's rear diff? I'm messing about with stuff and was thinking of doing this while I'm in my grubbies.. Thanks!

[IdahoDoug]

No worries - got it filled. Had enough on hand based on a guess. I'd say 2.2qts or so. Out with the black, in with the honey. Just a grey film/paste on the magnetic plug.

[IdahoDoug]

So, I don't want to start a debate on GL4 vs GL5, but does anyone know what Mitsubishi originally spec'd for this differential? The current websites say GL5 but I'm thinking that's not what Mitsubishi spec'd 27 years ago.

[Mazdax605]

That van should have the limited slip differential (I think all US spec L300's did), so make sure you use the proper friction modifier.

[IdahoDoug]

Chris,

I've had two Monteros with limited slip diffs over the years and both had a yellow tag regarding the diff on the doorframe, and a metal tag somewhere on the diff. I have not found either. Is there a build tag or other listing of features on my Van Wagon somewhere to help me know? Thanks.

[Mazdax605]

I was told by my L300 expert friend of mine in AZ that all US spec L300's had the limited slip. I changed the fluid in mine when I had it, and it wasn't acting like a LSD before or after the change with the friction modifier. I suppose it could have been worn out. He claims the diff must have been changed out, but I doubt it. Maybe he was mis-informed about the LSD in the US spec vanwagons. For the record my 89 Stargwagon Delica is an open diff as well. Wish it were the LSD, but it is what it is.

[IdahoDoug]

Yeah I wonder too about that LSD info. My 91 Montero had one and it was a durable multi-wet clutch style that worked quite well. But due to the high center of gravity vehicle lawsuits in the US, it had a yellow warning sticker on the driver's door frame. And due to typical techs lack of knowledge, it also had a metal plate affixed to the rear differential to ensure the correct gear oil was used. I would think Mitsubishi USA would use a corporate wide policy on such a feature. My Van Wagon has neither. I have also never, ever seen a limited slip differential that did not have SOME permanent label on it. LSD stamped on the plug, a metal plate, etc.

It is hard to find accurate information on my model, on the other hand. Even the forum reference info here on the "LS300" refers mainly to the 4WDs and export models and Australian models.

[teamtestbot]

I can confirm mine does NOT have a LSD or a tag indicating having a LSD. This was in fact one of the questions I raised a while back when I just got it running, about which vehicles I can harvest a LSD from, because winters are a bit irritating without one.

I used some Mobil GL-5 75w90 when I changed the diff fluid late last year.

[IdahoDoug]

That's good stuff. Now that your diff is properly broken in, that M1 will keep wear at negligible levels. Pricey.

[teamtestbot]

Based on recommendations from friends, I'm these days more in favor of a locker than a LSD. Having done some research on them I think it might not be hard to machine my own locking mechanism...

[IdahoDoug]

Yeah, a full manually operated locker provides a startling improvement in mobility in poor surfaces. but I've not had the same experiences with auto-lockers which can engage on their own at inopportune moments. The Mitsu limited slip diffs I've owned (2) were both nice units that worked, lasted years (many are roached in 20k miles) and were quiet (some designs are noisy).