2012 Subaru Outback Base, Automatic CVT TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Front Differential Assembly: Installation

  1. Install the front differential assembly to the converter case.
    NOTE: Be careful not to damage the inside of the case (especially the mating surface of the differential side retainers).
  2. Temporarily install the differential side retainers using ST.

    ST 18658AA020 WRENCH COMPL RETAINER

    Fig 1: Identifying Front Differential Assembly With Wrench Compl Retainer
    G06654708Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  3. Adjust the backlash of the front differential. Refer to , ADJUSTMENT , Front Differential Assembly.
  4. Inspect and adjust the tooth contact. Refer to , ADJUSTMENT , Drive Pinion Shaft Assembly.
  5. Remove the differential side retainers and install the O-rings and oil seals. Refer to , SIDE RETAINER , ASSEMBLY, Front Differential Assembly.
    NOTE:
    • Record how many turns were needed to remove.
    • Use new O-rings and oil seals.
  6. Install the differential side retainers using ST.
    NOTE: When attaching, turn the differential side retainer by the same number of turns it took to remove, and align the marks.

    ST 18658AA020 WRENCH COMPL RETAINER

  7. Install the lock plate.

    Tightening torque: 

    25 N.m (2.5 kgf-m, 18.4 ft-lb) 

    Fig 2: Identifying Lock Plate
    G07913656Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Install the drive pinion shaft assembly. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Drive Pinion Shaft Assembly.
  9. Install the primary pulley, secondary pulley and variator chain. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Primary Pulley and Secondary Pulley.
  10. Install the transmission case. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Transmission Case.
  11. Install the forward clutch assembly. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Forward Clutch Assembly.
  12. Install the intermediate case. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Intermediate Case.
  13. Install the transfer reduction driven gear assembly. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Transfer Reduction Driven Gear.
  14. Install the transfer clutch assembly. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Transfer Clutch.
  15. Install the rear drive shaft. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Rear Drive Shaft.
  16. Install the extension case. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Extension Case.
  17. Install the transmission harness. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Transmission Harness.
  18. Install the control valve body and oil pan. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Control Valve Body.
  19. Install the air breather hose. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Air Breather Hose.
  20. Install the transmission assembly to the vehicle. Refer to , INSTALLATION , Automatic Transmission Assembly.
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.

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