Vari-Lok friction modifier?

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Had the local Jeep dealership perform some maintenance on the rear axle of my Jeep GC. They refilled it with gear lube but not friction modifier. It is a Vari-Lok limited slip differential.
They claim the tech who did the work is top-notch on Jeeps and he says friction modifier is not needed on the Vari-Lok. My Factory Service Manual says otherwise. I had them put the FM in before it left the shop.

Anyone heard of a factory change in protocol on this??
 
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If the hypoid gear lube they used was spec'ed for LS applications (like Mobil 1 synthetic 75w-90LS), further friction modifiers may not have been needed. What does your service manual say specifically about their recommended replacement gear lube and friction modifier?
 
not a jeep guy but i know they use some Dana 44 rears + on my Nissan with similar theres a drain plug in the VERY bottom. i used redline's diff lube + it requires no xtra additives either!!
 
Agreed,

Dealership could be using a synthetic that is labeled for no additional modifier needed.
 
Sounds like the tech dropped the ball. The Vari-lok axles need the additive for sure. So you have a Quadra drive GC?
 
Originally Posted By: Blkstanger
Sounds like the tech dropped the ball. The Vari-lok axles need the additive for sure. So you have a Quadra drive GC?
you can NOT make that blanket stament with knowing what it was filled with
 
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Dealership work if they can get away for cheaper but still charge the higher amount. They'll do it for sure
 
Yes, the Vari-Lok comes on Quadra-Drive GC's, which is what I have. The Factory Service Manual (FSM) calls for Mopar Gear Lubricant 80W-90 or Mopar Synthetic Gear Lubricant 75W-140. (The dealership installed 80W-90 Mopar P/N 68218043-AA.) https://www.dealers-mopar.com/chemical/action/guide/en_CA/GEAR+AND+AXLE+LUBRICANTS/68218043CA/

In either case, the FSM says:
NOTE: Trac-lok and Vari-lok equipped axles require (4 ounces) of Limited Slip Additive be added to the lubricant." This is on page 0-5.

Interestingly enough, on page 0-7, it says "With Track-lok or Vari-Lok, add (2.5 ounces) of Friction Modifier." Both of these recommendations are for the rear axle.
I added 4 oz. when I changed the lube 80,000 miles ago.


So far, no one here has heard that Jeep no longer requires Limited Slip Additive???
 
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