The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline Tranny and rear service after 35 years - Questions

It was last driven in 1980. We had to pull the basepan to clean the oil ("Mud") out with putty knives. So today we start on the tranny and rear end. I'd appreciate someone with experience offering their advice. I'm guessing a simple drain/replace is a dream that won't come true!

Hy Farmone, a lot depends on what happens when you attempt to drain the lube out of the transmission and rear axle. Both components could be lubed with 90wt oil, at low temperatures pretty thick stuff. When you drain each, drain through a strainer, note the colour of the lube, and see what kind of chunks get hung up in the strainer. If the transmission is a four speed you can remove the top cover and wash down through it with some kerosene or diesel, for the rear axle depending on the year, you could remove the rear cover and wash down/inspect from that vantage point, hope that helps.

Thank you. I think it's a 3-speed, but not sure. I do plan to drain, observe, and wash where I can. That basepan was a real eye opener! Didn't get to it today - wife had leaves higher on the list.