Project Viper: Part 12 – Replacing the Fluids

Gen 2 Viper GTS DifferentialNext up was the differential fluid.

Gen 2 Viper GTS diff drain plugThere is only one fill/drain hole in the passenger side of the diff.

Gen 2 Viper GTS diff fluid drainWe used a Mityvac to suck the old fluid out of the diff.

9,000 mile Gen 2 Viper Diff FluidThe differential fluid did not look anywhere near as good as our transmission fluid, even though the diff fluid has the same 12,000 mile service interval.

Gen 2 Viper GTS Diff FluidsThe factory-fill for the diff is 45oz (just over 1 quart, so you’ll need 2 bottles) of the Mopar 75W-140 GL-5 Synthetic Gear & Axle Lubricant, Part Number: 68218657AA, MS-8985 with the 4oz bottle of Mopar Limited Slip Additive, Part Number: 04318060AD, MS.10111.

The diff fluid was superseded by Part Number: 4874469 / 04874469, while the greenish/blue Dana/Spicer Friction Modifier can also be used.

Quick Reference:

Page 1 – Trans Chassis Plate Removal
Page 2 – Trans Fluid Drain & Fill
Page 3 – Diff Fluid Drain
Page 4 – Diff Fluid Fill, Coolant Drain
Page 5 – Coolant Fill, Brake Fluid, Front Brake Bleed
Page 6 – Rear Brake Bleed, Power Steering Flush
Page 7 – Power Steering Fluid & Engine Oil

6 comments

    1. Because the transmission was design to use ATF for good shift quality in cold conditions, compatibility with synchronizer friction materials, and minimized parasitic drag to maximize power to the wheels.

      1. They probably didn’t want to develop a specific MT fluid since most of their vehicles are AT. It just seems a bit lazy to me, especially with a high horsepower halo car like the Viper.

        I have no idea what the viscosity is on the Mopar MTL, but I bet it’s higher than Dexron III:

        “Manual transmission fluid, as noted earlier, tends to be a higher viscosity than automatic transmission fluid. This helps the fluid develop a thick, durable protective film.”

  1. The passion and dedication you have for this project shine through your writing, and it’s contagious. I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for Project Viper. Keep up the fantastic work, and thank you for sharing your journey with us!

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