Different Case Pinion Cross Shaft - Removal When Broken
Model Year 1983Bulletin No. 83-179
File in Group 40
Number
1
Date
Aug. '83
SUBJECT: DIFFERENTIAL CASE PINION CROSS SHAFT REMOVAL PROCEDURE WITH A BROKEN PINION SHAFT LOCK SCREW
MODELS AFFECTED: ALL REAR WHEEL DRIVE MDDELS - ALL YEARS
FIGURE 1:
The following procedure should be used to remove a broken differential pinion cross shaft lock screw. Safety glasses must be worn.
Standard Differential
1. Install puller such as J-22888 or equivalent with the puller jaws inserted into the case openings and puller screw against the end of the pinion cross shaft on the side of the case opposite the lock screw. Refer to Figure #1. This is necessary so shearing the lock screw will not distress the pinion gear surface inside the case. A spacer such as a 5/16" nut may be required between the puller screw and the pinion cross shaft.
2. Position the case assembly on an angle so pinion cross shaft will clear pinion gear head during removal procedure.
3. Tighten puller screw to 50-55 ft.lbs. (68-75 N-m). Tap end of puller once with a hammer. Retighten puller screw about 1/8 turn (50-55 ft.lbs. [68-75 N-m]) and tap again. Repeat procedure until pinion cross shaft shears the lock screw.
4. When the lock screw is sheared, remove puller, turn case assembly and remove pinion cross shaft. The remainder of the lock screw can then usually be removed with a prick punch. A slight metal distress from lock screw hole to outer pinion of case is acceptable. If case is broken out at lock screw hole area, the case must be replaced.
5. Install new parts as required and reassemble differential.
Limited Slip Differential
A limited slip differential case assembly does not have access for both puller jaws.
As the lock screw hole in the pinion cross shaft is within .150" from the end of the shaft, a die grinder with a 1/4" carbide bit can be used to grind a
groove through the end of the pinion cross shaft exposing the lock screw. A 1/4" die grinder is a commonly available 28,000 to 30,000 RPM tool similar to a router. Both electric and air powered die grinders are available from power tool sources. This tool and bit is also useful for elongating holes in steel. etc.
FIGURE 2:
1. Wrap the ring gear in a shop towel and place towels around case assembly exposing only the end of pinion cross shaft. This will protect the differential internal parts from exposure to metal grindings. Refer to Figure #2.
2. Inspect and correct any fuel leaks in area of tank and fuel lines, as grinder will cause sparks.
3. Grind a groove through the end of the pinion cross shaft exposing the lock screw. When lock screw is exposed use a punch and hammer to drive out pinion cross shaft past the lock screw with the case on an angle so shaft will clear pinion gear head.
4. In most instances, the broken piece of lock screw can be removed with the case still in the housing.
5. Clean all traces of grindings from housing.
6. Install new parts as required and reassemble differential.
The suggested labor to remove a broken pinion shaft lock screw from either a standard or limited slip differential is .4 hr.