El Camino rear diff drain

[Meano]

I have an 87 el camino with a 10 bolt rear diff and Im planning on changing the fluids in the rear diff. I couldn't find a drain bolt but when I had my friend at Jiffy Lube check the fluids he said he replaced the drain bolt for me. So my question is, where is this mysterious drain bolt? Or will I have to crack the cover off the diff for it to drain?

 

[tc1959]

You have to remove the cover and replace the gasket.

 

[pontiacgp]

Your friend replaced the filler plug that used to check the level. I always spray mine down after I get the cover off to clean all the old differential oil out. I used silicone on the 7.5 rear cover instead of a gasket. Remember, if you have a posi to put the additive in or if you use synthetic most brands come with the additive. I like synthetic, lets the rear end rotate easier and deals with heat better

 

[ve3oky]

Yep unbolt the cover, crack the bottom and if your good fluid only runs down your arm to your elbow. 8)

 

[Bowiemontecarlo86]

Here's a vid that should help. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrAZia3jmyA&feature=youtube_gdata_player

 

[Meano]

Got the cover off and diff drained, I see there are little pieces of the gasket in the diff and on the gears. Is it safe to spray this out with water or how should I go about cleaning it?

 

[pontiacgp]

Just use some brake clean in a spray can...you didn't mention it but if your not sure about the gear ratio you have the number of teeth on the crown and pinion are marked on the crown

 

[Meano]

Got no brake cleaner, would wd-40 work or would it leave behind some residue?

 

[pontiacgp]

you can use wd 40, once you have sprayed it down just wipe it down with a cloth. I've seen guys use carb cleaner too.