2002 Nissan-Datsun Sentra SE-R, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Final Drive: Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
  1. Install side gear and thrust washers in differential case.
  2. Install pinion mate gears and thrust washers in differential case while rotating them.
    • When inserting, be careful not to damage pinion mate gear washers  .
    • Apply ATF to any parts  .
    Fig 1: Installing Pinion Mate Shaft In Differential Case
    G02016312Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  3. Measure clearance between side gear and differential case with washers using the following procedure.
    1. Set Tool and dial indicator on side gear.
      Fig 2: Setting Tool & Dial Indicator On Side Gear
      G02016313Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
    2. Move side gear up and down to measure dial indicator deflection. Always measure indicator deflection on both side gears.

      Clearance between: 0.1 - 0.2 mm (0.004 - 0.008 in) side gear and differential case with washers 

    3. If not within specification adjust clearance by changing thickness of side gear thrust washers.

      Side gear thrust washer: Refer to  DIFFERENTIAL SIDE GEAR THRUST WASHERS   .

      Fig 3: Moving Side Gear Up & Down For Measuring Dial Indicator Deflection
      G02016314Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  4. Install lock pin.
    • Make sure that lock pin is flush with case  .
    Fig 4: Installing Lock Pin
    G02016315Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  5. Install speedometer drive gear on differential case.
    • Align the projection of speedometer drive gear with the groove of differential case  .
    Fig 5: Installing Speedometer Drive Gear On Differential Case
    G02016316Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  6. Install final gear and tighten fixing bolts in numerical order.

    : 113 - 127 N.m (11.5 - 13.0 kg-m, 83 - 94 ft-lb) 

    Fig 6: Installing Final Gear Fixing Bolts & Tightening In Sequence
    G02016317Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  7. Press on differential side bearings.
    Fig 7: Installing Differential Side Bearings
    G02016318Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
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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.