Differential Assembly: Description and Operation

The solid rear axle layout is identical for 2WD, 4WD, vehicles. The rear axle consists of right and left axle shafts that have their inner ends connected to a hypoid type of differential. The axle housing is located to the frame from front to back with one upper and two lower trailing links. It is located from side to side with a single Panhard rod. The rear axle is suspended from the frame with coil springs and tubular shock absorbers.

To take full advantage of the DOHC engine's greater torque, the differential in these vehicles has a ring and pinion gear ratio that is numerically higher.