Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Assembly Procedure
- Lubricate the pinion and side gears using axle lubricant. Use the correct fluid. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers .
- Install the thrust washers and the differential side gears into the differential case.
If the same differential side gears and the thrust washers are being used, install the gears and the washers to the original locations.
- Install the differential pinion gears by performing the following steps:
- Position both pinion gears between the differential side gears directly opposite of each other.
- Rotate the differential side gears until the pinion gears are opposite the opening in the differential case in line with the pinion shaft opening.
- Install the thrust washers.
Rotate the pinion gears toward the differential case opening in order to permit the sliding in of the thrust washers.
- Install the pinion gear shaft.
- Install the new pinion gear shaft lock pin using a hammer and a brass drift.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.