2021 Subaru Ascent BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Front Differential: Installation

  1. Install the front differential to the converter case.
    CAUTION: Be careful not to damage the attachment section of the differential side retainer.
  2. Temporarily install the differential side retainers using the ST.

    Preparation tool: 

    ST: WRENCH COMPL RETAINER (18658AA021)

    G13200309Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  3. Adjust the hypoid gear set backlash. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Front Differential>ADJUSTMENT .
  4. Inspect and adjust the tooth contact. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Drive Pinion>ADJUSTMENT .
  5. Remove the differential side retainer and install a new O-ring and differential side retainer oil seal. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Front Differential>ASSEMBLY>DIFFERENTIAL SIDE RETAINER .
    NOTE: Record how many turns were needed to remove.
  6. Install the differential side retainers using ST (WRENCH COMPL RETAINER).
    NOTE: When attaching, turn the differential side retainer by the same number of turns it took to remove, and align the marks.
  7. Install the lock plate.

    Tightening torque: 

    25 N.m (2.5 kgf-m, 18.4 ft-lb)

    G13864127Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Install the oil baffle.
  9. Install the drive pinion. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Drive Pinion>INSTALLATION .
  10. Install the primary pulley, secondary pulley and variator chain. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Primary Pulley and Secondary Pulley>INSTALLATION .
  11. Install the transmission case. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Transmission Case>INSTALLATION .
  12. Install the forward clutch. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Forward Clutch>INSTALLATION .
  13. Install the intermediate case. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Intermediate Case>INSTALLATION .
  14. Install the transfer reduction driven gear. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Transfer Reduction Driven Gear>INSTALLATION .
  15. Install the transfer clutch. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Transfer Clutch>INSTALLATION .
  16. Install the rear drive shaft. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Rear Drive Shaft>INSTALLATION .
  17. Install the extension case. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Extension Case>INSTALLATION .
  18. Install the transmission harness. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Transmission Harness>INSTALLATION .
  19. Install the control valve body and oil pan. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Control Valve Body>INSTALLATION .
  20. Install the air breather hose. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Air Breather Hose>INSTALLATION .
  21. Install the transmission body. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Transmission Assembly>INSTALLATION .
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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.