Removal and Installation

DIFFERENTIAL REMOVAL

To service the differential the axle shafts must be removed. Refer to: "Drive Axles, Bearings and Joints : Service and Repair" Service and Repair

(1) Note the installation reference letters stamped on the bearing caps and housing machined sealing surface.







(2) Remove the differential bearing caps.
(3) Position Spreader W-129B with the tool dowel pins seated in the locating holes. Install the holddown clamps and tighten the tool turnbuckle finger-tight.







(4) Install a pilot stud at the left side of the differential housing. Attach Dial Indicator to housing pilot stud Load the indicator plunger against the opposite side of the housing and zero the indicator.

CAUTION: Do not spread over 0.38 mm (0.015 in.). If the housing is spread too much, it could be distorted or damaged.

(5) Separate the housing a maximum of 0.38 mm (0.015 in.). Measure the distance with the dial indicator.
(6) Remove the dial indicator.
(7) Pry the differential case loose from the housing. To prevent damage, pivot on housing with the end of the pry bar against spreader.






(8) Remove the case from housing. Mark or tag bearing cups indicating which side they were removed. Remove spreader from housing.


DIFFERENTIAL INSTALLATION

(1) Position Spreader W-129B with the tool dowel pins seated in the locating holes. Install the holddown clamps and tighten the tool turnbuckle finger-tight.
(2) Install a pilot stud at the left side of the differential housing. Attach Dial Indicator to housing pilot stud. Load the indicator plunger against the opposite side of the housing and zero the indicator.






CAUTION: Do not spread over 0.38 mm (0.015 in). If the housing is over-separated, it could be distorted or damaged.

(3) Separate the housing enough to install the case in the housing. Measure the distance with the dial indicator.
(4) Remove the dial indicator.
(5) Install case in the housing. Tap the differential case to ensure the bearings are fully seated. Remove the spreader.
(6) Install the bearing caps at their original locations. Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 61 Nm (45 ft. lbs.) torque.