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HOMESERVICE MANUALSSUBARU2016LEGACY 2.5IREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT VARIANT/TRIMSECTION 7 (CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSAXLE (CVT) (H6DO))FRONT DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLYADJUSTMENT
2016 Subaru Legacy 2.5i

Front Differential Assembly: Adjustment

2016 Subaru Legacy 2.5iSECTION Adjustment
WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
  1. Using the ST, screw-in the retainer until resistance is felt.
    NOTE: RH side should be screwed-in more than LH side.

    ST 18658AA020 WRENCH COMPL RETAINER

    Fig 1: Removing Differential Side Retainers Using Wrench Compl Retainer (ST 18658AA020)
    G06654708Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  2. Remove the remaining liquid gasket from the mating surface completely.
  3. Using the ST, install the drive pinion assembly to converter case.

    ST 18270KA020 SOCKET (E20)

    NOTE: Do not confuse the three different-length bolts when installing.

    Tightening torque: 

    43 N.m (4.4 kgf-m, 31.7 ft-lb) 

    Fig 2: Identifying Converter Case Drive Pinion Retainer And Lubrication Pipe Bolts
    G09482249Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Rotate the drive pinion shaft ten times or more using ST1 and ST2.

    ST1 18667AA010 HOLDER

    ST2 499787700 WRENCH

    Fig 3: Rotating Drive Pinion Using Holder (ST1 18667AA010)
    G06654696Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. While rotating the pinion shaft, tighten the retainer LH and loosen the retainer RH until the shaft can't be turned anymore. The backlash is "zero" when the pinion shaft comes to the point where it doesn't rotate.
  6. After the "zero" state is established, loosen the retainer LH by 3 notches and secure it with the lock plate. 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.
    Fig 4: Identifying Lock Plate
    G10313944Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.