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.
Inspection Procedure
Perform the following before disassembling the axle:
- Remove the fill plug from the axle.
- Remove the drain plug from the axle.
- Drain the axle lubricant.
- Inspect the oil and the case for metal chips.
Determine the source of the metal chips, such as a broken gear or bearing cage.
- Measure the rotating torque of the drive pinion and differential case assembly using an inch-pound torque wrench, if possible. Record the measurement.
- Check the drive pinion to ring gear backlash, if possible.
This information can be used in order to determine the cause of the axle problem. The information will also help when setting up and preloading the differential case.
Determine the cause of the axle problem before disassembly, if possible.
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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.