Rear differential identification

[rlt777]

Am pulling my hair out trying to identify what rear differential I have in order to order the right amount of fluid. The Workhorse repair manual lists fluid specifications for either a Dana 80 or American Axle. Crawling under the coach I see a tag with model S110, so I assume that’s the rear differential (is “rear differential” and “rear axle” used interchangeably? Don’t know) I have a 2003 Fleetwood Southwind 32VS. workhorse chassis with the 8.1 vortec

[Argosy]

Fill the differential until oil begins to come out the fill hole.

The differential changes the direction of rotation 90º, the axle contains the differential and is also used to mount the brakes and wheels and support the vehicle, it's the entire assembly.

[Unplanned Tourist]

Or check that it's full to start with and drain it into a pan, then measure how much you drained out.

[SafariBen]

Yes, they are interchangeable terms. That is a Spicer S110.

[Alan_Hepburn]

Originally Posted by Argosy

The differential changes the direction of rotation 90º, the axle contains the differential and is also used to mount the brakes and wheels and support the vehicle, it's the entire assembly.

To nitpick: you're describing the axle housing - the axle, or axle shaft, rides inside that housing, and connects the differential to the wheels...

[frankmcc]

Originally Posted by rlt777

Am pulling my hair out trying to identify what rear differential I have in order to order the right amount of fluid. The Workhorse repair manual lists fluid specifications for either a Dana 80 or American Axle. Crawling under the coach I see a tag with model S110, so I assume that’s the rear differential (is “rear differential” and “rear axle” used interchangeably? Don’t know) I have a 2003 Fleetwood Southwind 32VS. workhorse chassis with the 8.1 vortec

Because the tag says Spicer, the parent company to Dana, I would bet on it being a Dana 80. The response by Argosy is correct " Fill the differential until oil begins to come out the fill hole." and applies to any rear axle assembly. Usual old school trucker method is to insert your pinky finger in the hole and if you can reach fluid, you have enough.

[yeloduster]

Attached is the REAR AXLE FLUID TYPE, CAPACITY AND IDENTIFICATION from the 2006 Workhorse Chassis guide.

The S110 is similar to the Dana 80 and Dana M80 but is a heavier duty version with a larger ring gear. The attached guide provides recommended lubricant type and capacity. Note the S110 holds approximately twice as much lube as all versions of the Dana 80.

The tag says S110. It is a Dana S110. The attached chart tells the OP everything he needs to know. Filling it until the lube starts running out it good advice.