Hello Gentlemen:

I'm having a tough time finding a credible source re: what differential fluid I can safely sub for Shell Spirax #TS90, the fluid called for.

I read only one post that said he used, "Valvoline 75W90 pure synthetic"

Is this product OK? Any others?

Also, is it true there is no drain plug and that the old fluid must be sucked out from the fill plug? If so, can you do a good job yourself without a powered suction unit of some kind?

Lastly... how much do I need to buy for a complete drain and refill?

Thanks so much,

SirJag

 

Castrol SAF-XO is an option, is used in bmw open diffs for example.

The shell one is not available in small quantities, and that one is specifically made for long life. Not sure how the others age though, although it seems there is a Castrol Syntrax Long-life 75W-90 now that replaces the SAF-XO.

You need about 1.9 litres, and it all has to go out via the fill plug, which is difficult. Some remove the cross bar (not sure if it is the right word), so gain better access to the fill plug.

Pending the age (and your perfectionism), it might be a good idea to remove the rear sub frame anyhow, get all the bushes replaced and of course drain/refill the diff.

Also a good time to change the diff to a LSD one ;-)

 

Hi SirJag
I copied this paragraph from a thread that Thermo posted to:
I did the differential in my X-type and used Mobil 1 75W-140 full synthetic. I paid $18 a quart. Did it myself. Not that hard of a job. The hard part of it all is you also need a vacuum pump. That is a $15 part that can be bought at most auto parts places. I think it took me 30 minutes to do mine, which included the time to jack up the car. If you live in the Norfolk VA area, I would tell you to come over and we'll do it in my driveway. Very simple project.

Here is another thread:
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/j...-99-xj8-33435/

Here is article from JCNA wbsite:
JCNA Forums - Jaguar Clubs of North America

Here is the specification
Shell Spirax Super TS 90
Differential Fluid Capacity
1.9 liters (2.0 quarts)

Here is a PDF extraction from the JPEC (Jaguar Parts Electronic Catalog):

XJ8 differential parts shown JEPC.pdf

Look at #7 Female Plug in Diagram (It is the only plug listed).


Jim Lombardi

 

Did my diff with Mobil One Synthetic 15,000 miles ago. No issues.

Check the links Jim gave above before you waste your time jacking the car up only to find you don't have a tool to get the plug out.

 

Does anyone have experience with Redline?

Interesting article by a Jag owner:

http:// xjr6.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=490:h ow-to-improve-the-life-of-your-differential&catid=43:rear-diff&Itemid=47

SirJag

 

I don't know how good it is but it is well used by Harley riders.

 

>>Thank you for contacting Red Line Oil, in your Jaguar differential the 75W90 would be recommended, a suitable replacement for the original Shell fluid and would perform well through out your operating temperature range.

Regards, Dave
Red Line Oil


So I'm going to buy this.

Red Line Synthetic Oil - Gear Oil for Differentials - 75W90 GL-5 Gear Oil

Found it at Amazon for $14.13... free shipping no tax. Love Amazon. Order placed.

Thanks all for your help.

SirJag

 

Quote: Also a good time to change the diff to a LSD one ;-)

What does that mean, a LSD one? I am just running into that problem with the anti-slip mechanism - have a used one to replace, but would prefer a final solution/overhaul.

 

I've been using Valvoline Full Synthetic SYNpower 75w-140 gear oil in mine for about 6 mos now, have had no issues. I got it at AutoZone for about $12.99 a bottle (required 2 bottles for a full flush and refill).

 

I am having the same issue......a small weep of fluid from the diff. I removed the breather and it appeared clean and it has a free-spinning cap above the nut which I assume is the intended function? Wasn't sure if it was supposed to spin or not.

Rob