Symptoms
Scheduled service, or after deep water crossings or heavy towing.
The fix, step by step
- Remove the skid plate if needed.
- On each unit, loosen the fill plug first so you know you can refill, then drain, refit the drain plug and fill until fluid reaches the bottom of the fill hole.
- The manual calls for 75W-85 GL-5 gear oil in the differentials and Toyota 75W 'LF' in the transfer case.
- Toyota dealers don't always stock either, so owners have used Amsoil 75W-85 in the diffs and Red Line MT-LV in the transfer case.
- Keep your receipts in case of a warranty claim.
Tools & part numbers
- Socket set
- fluid pump
- drain pan
- 75W-85 GL-5 gear oil
- 75W transfer-case fluid
- new plug gaskets.
Where to buy the parts
Gear oil (75W-85 GL-5 and others)RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Red Line MT-LV 70W75W (owner-used in the transfer case)Red Line Oil ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Series parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.