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.
Front Differential Assembly: Adjustment
- Using the ST, screw-in the retainer until resistance is felt.NOTE: Screw-in the retainer RH side slightly deeper than the retainer LH.
ST 18658AA020 WRENCH COMPL RETAINER
- Remove the oil pump cover.
- Remove the liquid gasket from the mating surface completely.
- Install the oil pump cover to converter case, and secure them with tightening four bolts evenly.NOTE: Use an old gasket or aluminum washer to prevent damaging the mating surface of the housing.
Tightening torque:Β
41 N.m (4.2 kgf-m, 30.2 ft-lb)Β
- Rotate the drive pinion ten times or more using ST1 and ST2.
ST1 18667AA010 HOLDER
ST2 499787700 WRENCH
- Tighten the LH retainer by rotating the shaft until resistance is felt. Then loosen the retainer RH. Keep tightening the retainer LH, and loosening the retainer RH until the pinion shaft no longer be turned. This is the "zero" state.
- After the "zero" state is established, loosen the retainer LH by 3 notches and secure it with the lock plate. Then loosen the retainer RH and retighten until it stops. Rotate the drive pinion 2 or 3 times. Tighten the retainer RH further 1-3/4 notches. This sets the preload. Finally, secure the retainer with its lock plate.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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