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.
2004 Subaru Baja Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Front Differential: Disassembly
- DIFFERENTIAL CASE ASSEMBLY
- Using a press and ST, remove the taper roller bearing.
ST 498077000 REMOVER
- Secure the case in a vise and remove the crown gear tightening bolts, then separate the crown gear, case (RH) and case (LH).
- Pull out the straight pin and shaft, and remove the differential bevel gear, washer, and differential bevel pinion.
- Using a press and ST, remove the taper roller bearing.
- SIDE RETAINER NOTE: After adjusting the drive pinion backlash and tooth contact, remove and install the oil seal and O-ring.
- Remove O-ring.
- Remove oil seal.
- Take out either split pin, remove claw.
ST 398527700 PULLER ASSY
- Securely attach two claws to outer race, set ST to side retainer.
ST 398527700 PULLER ASSY
- Return removed claw to the original position, and install pin and split pin.
- Hold the shaft of ST to avoid removing from side retainer, and then remove the bearing outer race.
ST 398527700 PULLER ASSY
NOTE: Replace bearing inner and outer races as a single unit.
Factory Service Tools
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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.
