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Changing the rear differential fluid in your 2003 Ford Explorer is a straightforward process. You will need a 1/2 inch drive ratchet, a 3/4 inch drive ratchet, and replacement 75W-140 differential fluid. It might take some patience as things can sometimes not go according to plan, at least in my experience! I usually set aside an afternoon for this task and maybe enjoy a few beverages in the meantime. Start by lifting your Explorer with jack stands and accessing the rear differential cover. There is a fill plug on top that can be removed using the 1/2" drive, and a drain plug at the bottom that can be removed with the 3/4" drive. Remove these plugs to drain the old fluid, then replace the drain plug, fill with new fluid, replace the fill plug, and you are all set!
To start changing the rear differential fluid in your car, locate the fill plug at the top of the differential. The fill plug can be removed using a 1/2" drive ratchet, while the drain plug, which is located at the bottom, requires a 3/4" drive ratchet. Remove the fill plug first, followed by the drain plug to let the old fluid drain out. Once drained, refill the differential with fresh fluid.