Gear Oil Shelf Life

[1999cutiger]

Hi Folks,

I bought a case (12 quarts) of Motorcraft 80W90 dino gear oil yesterday for my truck. I stocked up, because this particular gear oil performs extremely well in my rear differential.

I am wondering how long this oil can sit on my shelf without issue. I only drive about 7500 miles per year and I have enough oil now for three oil changes. So, you can see how long I might have it for...

These unopened bottles will be stored in-doors in a climate controlled room. Thanks for your feedback.

 

[dparm]

Several years, or more. Most oil companies will tell you there is no shelf life, while others will simply "suggest" using it within 3-5 years.

 

[Eddie]

I would think 10 years unopened but, be sure to shake/mix before using, as additives can settle out.

 

[Chris142]

Theres cars running decades with the original axle fluid. A few years on your shelf ain't nuthin.

 

[mongo161]

Under the right conditions.....IMO a conventional gear oil should last for decades. Synthetic Gear Oil.....indefinitely.

Your a Smart man to get a stash started since I've already noticed the rise in the price of Mobil 1, Gear Oil and ATF.

I currently have 15 quarts of Mobil 1, Full synthetic, ATF stashed for my PS and Transmission and 6 quarts of Mobil 1, Full Synthetic, 75W-90 and 1 quart of 75W-140 stashed for the Front, Rear Differentials and Transfer Case.

 

[Bamboooo]

Originally Posted By: mongo161
Under the right conditions.....IMO a conventional gear oil should last for decades. Synthetic Gear Oil.....indefinitely.

Your a Smart man to get a stash started since I've already noticed the rise in the price of Mobil 1, Gear Oil and ATF.

I currently have 15 quarts of Mobil 1, Full synthetic, ATF stashed for my PS and Transmission and 6 quarts of Mobil 1, Full Synthetic, 75W-90 and 1 quart of 75W-140 stashed for the Front, Rear Differentials and Transfer Case.


Very understandable. But, don't you think in 2, 3, 5, years, they will make the oil "better"?

 

[mongo161]

Its very possible that they may make the oil better, However the cost of producing synthetic ATF and Gear Oil could be a lot higher....hence.....the retail price might be higher.

Oils and Fluids do get better.....but will the cost justify the quality?

 

[1999cutiger]

Thanks for all of the feedback. It sounds like I can store my gear oil on the shelf for a considerable amount of time without issue.