Diagnostic Routine Chart

Part 1:

Part 2:

Diagnostic Routine Chart

5. NOTE: If the conclusion of the road test points to an axle assembly section (ring and pinion or differential case) concern, carry out a visual inspection of the rear axle.

Inspect the axle components.
1 Remove the axle assembly.
2 Remove the differential housing cover. Drain the axle lubricant through a white cloth. Check the fluid for:
^ any foreign material.
^ metal particles.
^ burnt odor.

3 NOTE: When inspecting the axle, do not clean the components immediately. Cleaning may remove diagnostic evidence.

Inspect the axle components.
^ Look for:
- loose fasteners.
- notches or visible steps or grooves created by wear.
- pitting or cracking along gear contact lines.
- scuffing or deformations.
- discolorations.
- nicks or ridges on gear teeth.
^ Clean the axle components for inspection.
- Remove as much lubricant as possible with clean solvent. Wipe the components or blow them dry with compressed air.
^ Re-inspect for:
- loose fasteners.
- notches or visible steps or grooves created by wear.
- pitting or cracking along gear contact lines.
- scuffing or deformations.
- discolorations.
- nicks or ridges on gear teeth.
^ Check backlash and carry out a ring and pinion pattern test. Refer to Checking Differential Ring Gear Backlash Checking Differential Ring Gear Backlash and Checking Tooth Contact Pattern and Condition of the Ring and Pinion Checking Tooth Contact Pattern and Condition of the Ring and Pinion