Differential Capacity Question

[Yardbird]

I have a 2000, 2.5L, 2WD, 5-speed manual. The door tag says that I have a 7.5-4.10 but the tag is missing off the diff. I opened it to check it and found rust inside so I'm wondering if it's a junkyard replacement. It had been opened before. When I put it back together, I had to add almost 4 quarts to fill it. The factory manual said it should take 5 pints. Anybody know what the deal is? I also filled it to the plug hole. The factory spec says the level should be about 1/2" below but I couldn't feel the level with my finger. Any problem with filling it up?

Thanks for the info.

 

[Dune Runner]

No, Fill away

 

[adsm08]

You can't have too much. If you somehow manage to get to much in the level will correct itself.

 

[4x4junkie]

Does it have an aftermarket cover on it by chance? Many aftermarket diff covers do increase capacity by about a quart or so.

And yes, an overfilled axle does tend to self-correct it's level, though quite messily (the excess usually belches out the breather tube and getting all over the undercarriage). 1/4 - 1/2" below the fill hole is correct level.

 

[Napabandit]

The excess will prevent rust when it pukes out the vent tube. Make sure it is clear and not kinked. If it is obstructed, your axle seals will leak.

 

[35Remmy]

Amsoil