When Should Differential Fluid Be Replaced?

A differential is a set of gears that allows the driven wheels of a vehicle to rotate at different speeds when traveling around corners or over rough terrain. These gears necessitate lubrication, which is commonly referred to as differential fluid, gear oil, or gear lube. Despite the fact that modern vehicles have significantly more horsepower, torque, and towing capacity than their predecessors, the design of differential gears and bearings has remained largely unchanged.

When Should Differential Fluid Be Replaced?

The answer is determined by the manufacturer. For the proper service interval, always refer to your owner’s manual. In most cases, differential fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Because metal-on-metal contact generates heat from friction, it’s critical to stay on top of changing differential fluid. It also wears down surfaces and weakens gears. This can result in differential failure, which is a costly issue.

Differential fluid keeps the differential operating at peak performance for an extended period of time.  It is intended to perform under high-pressure conditions rather than at high temperatures, as engine oil is. It lubricates clutch packs, gears, and bearings; lubricates the ring and pinion gears that transfer power from the driveshaft to the wheel axles; and -cools and lubricates the differential.

The differential would overheat if there was no differential fluid because of metal-on-metal contact. That means it would burn out, potentially causing safety issues and necessitating costly repairs.

Differential fluids are classified into two types. Mineral oil, for example, is a natural, crude oil-based fluid. The other type of differential fluid is synthetic differential fluid, which is created in a laboratory. Synthetic differential fluid oils, like all synthetic oils, can be fine-tuned for optimal performance.

When differential fluid levels fall below a certain level, the gears begin to grind, which can lead to differential failure. Differentials do not have an oil filter, unlike motor oil, which does. Small metal shavings or pieces may appear when a differential experiences unwanted friction, causing significant damage to the differential.

4TU1710N: 4×4 Ultimate Offroad Clutch Kit For Toyota Landcruiser 4.2 Ltr Diesel, 1HZ LC100 1/99-On

4TU1710N

MAKE

MODEL

MODEL ID

ENGINE SIZE

SERIES

YEAR

Toyota

Landcruiser

1HZ, HZJ78

4.2 Ltr Diesel

96kW, 5 Speed

10/99-2/07

Toyota

Landcruiser

1HZ, HZJ79

4.2 Ltr Diesel

96kW, 5 Speed

10/99-2/07

Toyota

Landcruiser

1HZ, HZJ105

4.2 Ltr Diesel

5 Speed

3/98-On

Toyota

Landcruiser

1HZ, LC100

4.2 Ltr Diesel

5 Speed

1/99-On

 

LC100 was designed to provide more power than the 80 Series it replaced while maintaining the nameplate’s high levels of reliability. Furthermore, because of its longer wheelbase, it has improved passenger comfort. Despite its unremarkable design, the LC 100 provided a commanding view of the road thanks to its tall and flat front area, as if aerodynamics had never existed. Nonetheless, because it began with the 80 series to show some curved lines, it continued. As a result, the areas around the wheels on the front fenders were enlarged. On the rear quarter panels, a similar enlarged area was applied around the wheels.

Depending on the options, the interior featured either fabric or leather upholstery. The dashboard appeared to be a cross between a car and a truck, with a comprehensive instrument cluster that displayed more gauges than a standard car. Nonetheless, the center stack was not installed by truck-makers. Furthermore, the tall center console created a separate area for both front occupants. The middle row could accommodate three passengers, while the last row could accommodate two more.

Europe’s weapon of choice was the 4.2-liter inline-six turbo-diesel. In any case, it was a large vehicle that, thanks to its all-wheel drive system and two-speed transfer case, could still handle off-road situations well.

4WD Clutch Kit – Ultimate Heavy-duty Upgrade

When a new clutch kit is installed the flywheel must be either replaced or ground. This is because excessive heat from normal driving changes the structure of your flywheel surface which creates less friction affecting the performance of your clutch. If this is not done common issues experienced are shudder and or slipping after installing the new clutch kit.

Why grind when you can replace?

There are three main technical reasons to replace a conventional flywheel instead of grinding it.

  1. Issues caused by a bad grind. There are various issues that can come out of a poor grind, these include;  (a) Flywheel surface being too smooth which can cause shutter or slipping. (b) Incorrect flywheel step or recess ground; in the case where a flywheel is not flat the recess or step must be maintained. Failure to do this can cause engagement or disengagement issues.
  2. Risk of catastrophic failure; in situations where the flywheel is placed under extreme heat damage can occur to the steel microstructure weakening the flywheel which can lead to cracking or destruction of the flywheel.
  3. Decreasing the overall stack height. Modern actuation systems have limited bearing height adjustment so after 2-3 grinds the overall stack height of the clutch system can be reduced enough to cause disengagement issues.

It’s not uncommon for LC100 owners to modify their diesel Landcruiser’s for more extreme off-road driving and when these modifications are done it’s important to also upgrade the clutch system. For these enthusiasts, a clutch modification that can handle greater torque while also increasing heat dissipation and providing a superb pedal feel is essential. 4Terrain has been engineering different options for Landcruisers for decades, one of the most popular products being in the 4Terrain Ultimate brand. 

Featuring:

  • Patented ER2 High Torque SGI Cover Assembly
  • Aramid Dual Friction Clutch Plate

This kit includes:

  • 4Terrain ER2 patented heavy duty cover assembly 
  • 4Terrain Aramid Dual Friction, High Torque, Clutch Plate
  • Release Bearing 
  • Spigot Bearing 
  • Alignment Tool

This clutch kit comes with a  warranty period of 3 years or 50,000 kilometers (whichever occurs first).

Clutch Plate Dimensions: 275mm x 21T x 29.0mm

FULL CLUTCH KIT RANGE

TORQUE CAPACITY

BRAND

DETAILS

PART NUMBER

PEAK

RECOMMENDED

4Terrain Ultimate Clutch Kit

4TU1710N

623Nm

498Nm

4T Ultimate Clutch Kit +FW

4TUSRF1710N-A

623Nm

498Nm

4Terrain Heavy Duty Clutch Kit

4T1710NHD

574Nm

459Nm

 

The Consequences of Living and Driving Near the Ocean on Your Vehicle

Living and driving in certain parts of the world exposes your vehicle to conditions that may be detrimental to its longevity and overall health. In fact, did you know that living near the coast has a greater negative impact on your vehicle than living inland?

Of course, most people would find that living near a beach has more advantages than disadvantages. Who wouldn’t want unrestricted access to fishing, watersports or great camping spots? Unfortunately, your 4X4 can be negatively impacted by being close to the ocean. 

There are numerous reasons why the beach is not your vehicle’s friend:
 
  • Exterior rust

Just like living in an area where there is a lot of snow, which brings salt to the roads, living near the beach means there will be salt. Salt exposure hastens the formation of rust. “If you live within 20 miles of the beach, your vehicle is probably exposed to sea spray in the air on a regular basis.” It is recommended that you wash your vehicle on a regular basis and keep it as covered as possible.

  • Internal rusting
Yes, rust can form inside your vehicle. Sand and salt can get into the braking system, rust nuts and bolts, and cause a variety of problems in the vehicle’s underbelly. The same recommendations as above apply here, as does getting regular professional check-ups to scan for any internal damage.
 
  • Damages caused by too much sun exposure

If you live near a beach or visit one frequently, you will undoubtedly have many sunny days. You may enjoy the warm rays, but your car does not. According to General Motor’s (GM) experts, “the sun causes the pores in your car’s paint to expand.” This allows it to absorb more saltwater, causing your vehicle to corrode even more.”

The sun is a powerful force; it can pass through windshields and even visors to cause sun damage to your vehicle’s interior, ageing and/or lightening the leather and other materials. Sand can also damage the interior of your vehicle. If sand gets into the internal parts of the car, you may experience damage to the engine belt, brake pads, and calipers. When sand gets into car sensors, it can cause them to give false readings.” That’s not good. Keep your vehicle as far away from sand as possible.

  • Unwanted substances on the finish

Living near the beach can cause a lot of natural materials to fall, blow, and careen toward your vehicle. Sand, insects, rain, pollutants, bird poop, and so on. Washing your car on a regular basis may not remove everything. GM recommends claying your car as a unique way to remove small impurities permanently.

If you live near or frequent the coast, the best thing you can do is keep your vehicle as covered and protected as possible. Also, regular washing and check-ups are highly recommended. You can have fun in the sun without worrying about the integrity of your vehicle if you do these important things.
 

4TU2765N: Great Wall V240/X240 4×4 Ultimate Offroad Performance Clutch Kit

4TU2765N

MAKE

MODEL

MODEL ID

ENGINE SIZE

SERIES

YEAR

Great Wall

V240

4G69S4N

2.4 Ltr. MPFI

100kw K2, 5 Speed

6/09-On

Great Wall

X240

4G69S4N

2.4 Ltr. MPFI

100kw CC, 5 Speed

10/09-On

 

The V240 and X240 are classified as body-on-frame vehicles in the industry. That is, instead of the body being one complete unit with a suspension attached to it, it is attached to a separate chassis, a technique commonly used on utility vehicles and trucks (how most cars and softroaders are made). The GWM V240 ute shares some of its components and chassis with the X240, but they are not identical twins under the skin.

There are trims that offer high and low-range options for those who want to go off-road.
The X240’s body-on-chassis design necessitates some concessions, the cargo floor is higher and the cabin floor is shallower, your knees sit a little higher than they would in other vehicles. Aside from that, the cabin is a reasonably comfortable place to stay. There is space for four adults or two adults and three children. There are also numerous storage pockets in the front, though the map pockets in the doors are quite thin.

In terms of durability and reliability, the mechanical bits have been well-proven, so they should last a long time. In short, the range is generally durable and, with proper care, will last a long time.

It’s not uncommon for V240 and X240 owners to modify their diesel vehicle for more extreme off-road driving and when these modifications are done it’s important to also upgrade the clutch system. For these enthusiasts, a clutch modification that can handle greater torque while also increasing heat dissipation and providing a superb pedal feel is essential. 4Terrain has been engineering different options for Great Wall for years, one of the most popular products being in the 4Terrain Ultimate brand. 


Featuring:

  • Patented ER2 High Torque SGI Cover Assembly
  • Aramid Dual Friction Clutch Plate


This kit includes:

  • 4Terrain ER2 patented heavy duty cover assembly 
  • 4Terrain Aramid Dual Friction, High Torque, Clutch Plate
  • Release Bearing 
  • Spigot Bearing 
  • Alignment Tool

This clutch kit comes with a  warranty period of 3 years or 50,000 kilometers (whichever occurs first).

Clutch Plate Dimensions: 225mm x 23T x 26.3mm

FULL CLUTCH KIT RANGE

TORQUE CAPACITY

BRAND

DETAILS

PART NUMBER

PEAK

RECOMMENDED

4Terrain Ultimate Clutch Kit

4TU2765N

411Nm

329Nm

4T Ultimate Clutch Kit +FW

4TUSRF2765N-A

411Nm

329Nm

4Terrain Heavy Duty Clutch Kit

4T2765NHD

379Nm

303Nm

 

4TU3055N: Toyota Hilux 2.8 Ltr/2.4 Ltr CRD Turbo, 6 Speed, 10/15-On

4TU3055N

MAKE

MODEL

MODEL ID

ENGINE SIZE

ENGINE CODE

YEAR

Toyota

Hilux

GUN125

2.4 Ltr CRD Turbo

2GD-FTV, 110kw, 6 Speed

10/15-On

Toyota

Hilux

GUN126

2.8 Ltr CRD Turbo

1GD-FTV, 130kw, 6 Speed

10/15-On

Toyota

Hilux

GUN136

2.8 Ltr CRD Turbo

1GD-FTV, 130kw, 6 Speed

10/15-On

Toyota

Hilux

GUN135

2.4 Ltr CRD Turbo

2GD-FTV, 110kw, 6 Speed

10/15-On

Toyota

Fortuner

GUN156

2.8 Ltr CRD Turbo

1GD-FTV, 130kw, 6 Speed

11/15-On

Toyota

Hiace

GDH300

2.8 Ltr CRD Turbo

1GD-FTV, 130kw, 6 Speed

2/19-On

 

The eighth-generation Toyota Hilux dubbed a new era for pickup by the company,  exceeded beyond expectations, thanks to its redesigned exterior, stylish and comfortable interior, refined ride comfort, and more powerful yet efficient turbo diesel engines.

Toyota improved the cabin’s comfort and functionality. Despite the sleeker roofline, it has more headroom and shoulder room, and passengers in the back benefit from the extra space because the knee room has been expanded.

4WD Clutch Kit – Ultimate Heavy-duty Upgrade

Designed and manufactured to replace the clutch system installed as Original Equipment, a 4Terrain Ultimate replacement clutch kit offers the ultimate torque capacity increase. Each component has been thoroughly tested and developed for a specific application. This range provides a Quality Assured replacement part that will meet or exceed the requirements of the original unit.

After 70 years of experience in developing and manufacturing clutch kits for OEM and Aftermarket use, CI is the trusted source for a complete range of Clutch Kits suited to your vehicle.

PATENTED 4TERRAIN OFF-ROAD COVER ASSEMBLY: 4×4 systems need a higher torque capacity while retaining good pedal feel with fine modulation control. These characteristics inevitably increase heat which reduces service life. So the ideal 4×4 clutch system must also have improved heat dissipation. 4Terrain cover assemblies are in themselves high clamp load covers providing increased clamping force as compared to a standard product. Also featuring the ER2 grooved cover which increases torque capacity while also increase heat dissipation.

SPHEROIDAL GRAPHITE CASTINGS: Approximately 300% stronger than a standard casting this material (sometimes referred to as Anti Burst casting) not only increases strength by up to 3 times, it also improves heat dispersion.

BALANCED COVERS: To ensure that the clutch system performs at maximum efficiency and that no unwanted vibration is generated as the cover spins, all 4Terrain cover assemblies undergo a 2-stage balancing process.

4TERRAIN DUAL FRICTION CLUTCH PLATE: 4Terrain Ultimate Clutch Kits feature a dual friction clutch plate. Organic material on the flywheel side is replaced with Aramid, the same material used in bulletproof vests, for improved fade resistance and increased torque capacity due to a higher coefficient of friction. 4Terrain Ultimate plates are the ultimate for your 4×4.

Featuring:

  • Patented ER2 High Torque SGI Cover Assembly
  • Aramid Dual Friction Clutch Plate
  • Clutch Plate Dimensions: 275mm x 21T x 29.8mm
  • Comes with a parts and labour warranty period of 3 years or 50,000 kilometers (whichever occurs first).

This kit includes:

  • 4Terrain ER2 patented heavy duty cover assembly
  • Dual friction material heavy-duty clutch plate
  • Bolt kit
  • Release Bearing
  • Spigot Bearing
  • Alignment Tool
  • 4Terrain Ultimate Wooden Box

 

FULL CLUTCH KIT RANGE

TORQUE CAPACITY

BRAND

DETAILS

PART NO.

PEAK

RECOMMENDED

4TU 4×4 Offroad Performance Clutch Kit

4TU3055N

846Nm

677Nm

4THD 4×4 Offroad Performance Clutch Kit

4T3055NHD

623Nm

778Nm

CI Premium Heavy Duty Clutch Kit

R3055NHD

711Nm

570Nm

CI Standard Clutch Kit

R3055N

Meets or Exceeds OE Specs

 

Evidence Based Why 4x4s Needs a Heavy Duty / Performance Clutch

Owning a 4×4 is such a wonderful experience, often we tend to neglect that towing loads are taking an effect on the vehicle. Vehicle manufacturers install four-wheel drives with a clutch that’s just adequate for said vehicle’s intended function, such as daily driving, some off-road driving, and some towing, they rarely anticipate off-roading enthusiasts usually route into putting bigger tires, carrying additional accessories and gear, engine remap, installing an exhaust, and adding additional weight above the maximum stated towing capacity. Stock clutches were not made for performance applications, so it keeps wearing out before it should.

Just like brake pads, the clutch wears down as time goes by, needing to be replaced, so a clutch should be looked at the same way. A clutch’s materials constantly deteriorate every time they move, so it’s not expected to last for a vehicle’s entire lifetime. There are few things that shorten the clutch’s life span quicker than expected, usually will result in degradation of clutch plate’s friction material which leads to slipping — not being able to hold the flywheel anymore.


Even if nothing is wrong with your clutch, upgrading to a performance clutch kit can help reduce the need for high-cost maintenance and repairs in the long run. Performance clutches usually have higher clamp loads and more durable disc materials. Increasing the clamp load of the cover assembly holds the clutch disc better meaning more torque can be transmitted without the clutch slipping, and the clutch will be much more likely to withstand aggressive shifting or clutch dumping. 4Terrain performance clutch kits will give you everything that you need while exploring the outdoors and are available in various levels of torque capacity. We manufacture 4Terrain to provide an above-average clamping force to withstand the loads of towing, power upgrades, increase tire diameter and vehicle weight. Our clutch disc and pressure plates are engineered with premium materials to maintain a better pedal feel, increase torque capacity, and to last longer.

4TUDMR3053N: Suits Nissan Navara 2.5 Ltr, QR25DE,122kw D23 NP300, 11/15 on

4TUDMR3053N

MAKE

MODEL

MODEL ID

ENGINE SIZE

ENGINE CODE

YEAR

Nissan

Navara

D23 NP300

2.5 Ltr

QR25DE, 122kw

11/15-On

 

The Nissan NP300, also known as the Nissan Frontier, is a pickup truck that comes in three body styles: single cab, king cab, and double cab. The NP300’s towing capacity of 3000kg complements its large payload, allowing operators to tow additional materials and work equipment. The Navara is named after the region of Navarre in northern Spain.

The six-speed manual transmission provides a good balance of acceleration and fuel economy, as well as excellent reliability. The Nissan Navara is well worth your consideration if you’re looking for a comfortable yet powerful pickup truck. It also comes at a reasonable price, making it one of the best buys for those looking for a pickup truck.

4WD Clutch Kit – Ultimate Heavy-duty Upgrade

What is a Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF)? Can you replace it with a Solid Mass Flywheel (SMF)?

This clutch kit converts the factory dual mass flywheel (DMF) to a solid mass flywheel. Check out our video on DMF’s and DMF conversions.



Featuring:

  • Patented ER2 High Torque SGI Cover Assembly
  • Aramid Dual Friction Clutch Plate
  • Clutch Kit including Solid Mass Flywheel
  • Clutch Plate Dimensions: 250mm x 24T x 25.5mm

This kit includes:

  • 4Terrain ER2 patented heavy duty cover assembly
  • Dual friction material heavy-duty clutch plate
  • Solid Flywheel 
  • Bolt kit 
  • Release Bearing
  • Spigot Bearing
  • Alignment Tool
  • 4Terrain Ultimate Wooden Box

 

FULL CLUTCH KIT RANGE TORQUE CAPACITY
BRAND DETAILS PART NUMBER PEAK RECOMMENDED

4Terrain Inc SMF (Flywheel) 4×4 Ultimate Off-road Performance Clutch Kit

4TUDMR3053N

711Nm

569Nm

4THD Inc SMF (Flywheel) 4×4 Off-road & Towing Clutch Kit

4TDMR3053NHD

655Nm

524Nm

CI Clutch Kit Inc DMF (Flywheel)

DMF3053N

Meets or Exceeds OE Specs

CI Clutch Kit Inc SMF (Flywheel)

DMR3053N

Meets or Exceeds OE Specs

CI Premium Heavy Duty Clutch Kit Inc SMF (Flywheel)

DMR3053NHD

599Nm

479Nm

CI Standard Clutch Kit

R3053N

Meets or Exceeds OE Specs

 
 
 

4Terrain Clutch Range: 4Terrain Ultimate

 

The 4T Ultimate with Patented ER2 Groove Design has a number of features that set it apart from the competition. Clutch kits are comprised of a cover assembly, clutch disc, release bearing, spigot bearing, and alignment tool (some kits also include a solid replacement flywheel or DMR). The cover assembly is finished with a premium corrosion-resistant surface finish that has excellent oxidation resistance over time. Furthermore, the clutch pressure plate features 4T Ultimate’s ER2 design technology.

The cover assembly is made of Spheroidal Graphite casting material, which has a yield strength 300 percent higher than standard castings. Heat dispersion is also improved by the material’s microstructure. The clamp load on the cover assembly is higher than on a standard cover assembly, resulting in increase torque capacity.

CAD/CAM technology is used to precision machine the patented pressure plate with ER2 grooves. In two ways, the design improves performance. First, it increases the torque capacity by increasing the mean effective radius, and second, it aids in cooling, allowing the friction material to operate at lower temperatures and thus with a higher coefficient of friction.

A special flywheel side friction layer is used on the clutch disc. This Aramid friction material has a higher coefficient of friction to increase the torque capacity while not negatively affecting driveability. Clutch fade is also lessened by 50% through the use of this material. 

These features ensure that the clutch system can transmit up to 60% more torque than a conventional Clutch Kit, making it appropriate for high-torque applications. Higher clamp loads, a larger Mean Effective Radius of the pressure plate, improved cooling, and a higher coefficient of friction materials on the clutch disc have all contributed to this increase in overall torque capacity.

The 4Terrain Ultimate is the perfect clutch for any extreme off-road vehicle, backed by a 3 Year/50,000Km warranty.

 

 

4Terrain Clutch Range: 4Terrain Heavy Duty

4Terrain Heavy Duty is a robust, no-nonsense clutch solution for high mileage 4X4’s. It is designed to handle high torque loads leaving conventional clutch in the dust. Designed and produced to replace the clutch system fitted as original equipment it provides a considerable torque capability boost.


Each component has undergone extensive testing and development in order to meet the needs of a given application.

4Terrain products (4Terrain Ultimate or 4Terrain Heavy Duty) warranty period is 3 years or 50,000 kilometers (whichever occurs first) from date of purchase.

The system was intended for the following applications that require more torque than the usual:

  • Towing
  • High weight loads
  • Trade/commercial use

4Terrain Heavy Duty with Patented* ER² 

Advantages of 4Terrain Heavy Duty 4×4 Performance clutch kit.

The unique ER² heavy duty cover assembly in 4Terrain Heavy Duty increases torque capacity. This system has a clamp load that is on average 20% greater than OE. The system also benefits from the Spheroidal Graphite Iron (SG Iron) ER² grooved pressure plate, which increases torque capacity. This groove was created particularly to improve the pressure plate’s Mean Effective Radius and aid in heat removal. 

The 4Terrain Heavy Duty Clutch system is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty vehicles. It’s a no-brainer for anyone who need unwavering dependability.

4Terrain Torque Capacity

4TU3056N: Suits 2015-On Toyota Hilux 2.7 Ltr MPFI, 2TR-FE, 122kw

4TU3056N

MAKE

MODEL

MODEL ID

ENGINE SIZE

TRANSMISSION

YEAR

Toyota

Hilux

TGN127

2.7 Ltr MPFI, 2TR-FE, 122kw

 

7/15-On

Toyota

Hilux

TGN126

2.7 Ltr MPFI, 2TR-FE, 122kw

5 Speed

7/15-On

Toyota

Hilux

TGN121

2.7 Ltr MPFI, 2TR-FE, 122kw

5 Speed

7/15-On

 

The Toyota Hilux is an unbreakable vehicle that has a robust appearance, can easily carry large loads, and has a smooth petrol engine. This Toyota engine will last between 250,000 and 300,000 kilometers on average. This means the Hilux’s petrol engine has an average life of between 14-18 years. This Toyota Hilux engine is available in a wide range of body variants. For this model, you can get it with Single cab-chassis low-rider, Single cab-chassis Hi-Rider, and Dual cab UTE low-rider.

As this is primarily a commercial vehicle a heavy-duty clutch kit is a logical modification to increase durability and reliability. Clutch Industries has a range of clutch kits available including 4×4 performance kits in the 4Terrain range, the 4TU3056N being the highest spec system in the range.  

Featuring:

  • Chrome Vanadium Diaphragm for maximum durability.
  • Cl’s ER2 grooved pressure plate patented technology for greater torque capacity and increased heat dispersion.
  • SG Iron pressure plate with a yield strength 300% higher than standard castings.
  • Dual friction clutch plate with low wear, high coefficient of friction aramid buttons.

This kit includes:

  • 4TERRAIN ER2 Heavy Duty Cover Assembly
  • 4Terrain Aramid Dual Friction
  • High Torque, Clutch Plate
  • Release bearing 
  • Clutch Alignment Tool
  • Spigot Bearing 

FLYWHEEL KITS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE