Can I use ramps to change differential fluid?
 

Can I use ramps to change differential fluid? Or would that create too much of a non-level situation?

I gather that, without a lift, the preferred method is to raise left rear wheel just high enough to remove it.

Do you have an inclined driveway?

Well, yes, if you trust the ramps.

I've never owned ramps, because I was too cheap to buy the really good ones. I have reason to believe that the entry-level ramps rather unsafe in their capacities. I have read of and seen pics of collapsed ramps, but have never seen them collapse(d)/fail in person.

Do you have a hand-pump to draw the old fluid out of the casing? Or, are you planning on draining it?

No.

ive done it. The car didn't blow up and I wasn't killed, so I doubt it makes that much difference. :D

The way I see it is that you get a little extra lube in there, if its too much, expansion might let a little dribble out the vent. I never had that problem though. maybe a few ounces past where the level would be flat, but you still have a pretty substantial air pocket in there.

My plan was to drain it. Open fill hole first, then drain hole.

Good plan, you don't want to drain it only to find out the fill plug is frozen.

If you can find a hand pump, that works too. The top fill hole is in a pretty tight space.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8126/8...51121336_c.jpg

As long as you don't mind backing the car up the ramps it'll be OK. The angle is not significant in terms of draining all the old oil. Take the car for a drive so the oil is warm. If possible, let it drain overnight.

Jeremy

Great...thanks guys....and just discovered I have a 14mm hex socket!

I just used ramps to drain my diff. I backed onto the ramps and then jacked up the front enough to get the car level. I used jack stands on the front. It worked out fine.

I have used ramps to change the diff fluid in two W123's with no ill effects (yet) I can't imagine the extra fluid is much at all.

FWIW it's the method on the DieselGiant pictorial. Mercedes Rear Differential Fluid Change

While we are on the subject of ramps I recently picked up a set of Rhino Ramps at Walmart.

Anyone else used these ramps?

They seem quite solid, not like the bent metal type.

And they are made in the USA.

Yes, that's what I have. The 12,000 lb. version.