2022 Subaru Ascent BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Front Differential: Adjustment

  1. Using the ST, screw-in the differential side retainer until resistance is felt.
    NOTE: RH side should be screwed-in more than LH side.

    Preparation tool: 

    ST: WRENCH COMPL RETAINER (18658AA021)

    G13200309Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  2. Remove the remaining liquid gasket from the mating surface completely.
  3. Using the ST (SOCKET (E20)), install the drive pinion retainer to converter case.
    NOTE: Do not confuse the three different-length bolts when installing.

    Tightening torque: 

    43 N.m (4.4 kgf-m, 31.7 ft-lb)

    G09482249Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Rotate the drive pinion ten times or more using ST1 and ST2.

    Preparation tool: 

    ST1: HOLDER (18667AA010)

    ST2: WRENCH (499787700)

    G13200296Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. While rotating the drive pinion, keep tightening the LH differential side retainer and loosening the RH side until it does not rotate anymore. The backlash is "zero" when the drive pinion comes to the point where it doesn't rotate.
  6. After reaching the "zero" state, loosen the LH differential side retainer by 3 notches and secure it with the lock plate. After returning the RH differential side retainer, retighten until it stops. Rotate the drive pinion 2 or 3 times. Tighten the RH side further 1-3/4 notches. This sets the preload. Finally, secure it with the lock plate.
    G13864145Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    NOTE: Turning the differential side retainer by one scale changes the backlash approx. 0.05 mm (0.002 in).
    G13864146Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Insert the ST (AXLE SHAFT) into the differential case.
  8. Wrap the drive pinion with cloth and pinch with vise pliers. Install the installation bolt into the bolt hole of secondary pulley and secure the bolt and vise pliers using a tie-wrap or a wire.

    Make sure the drive pinion does not move.

    G13200331Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  9. Check the backlash is within specification using ST, magnet stand, dial gauge (lever type).

    Preparation tool: 

    ST: PLATE (498255400)

    Backlash: 

    0.13 - 0.18 mm (0.005 - 0.007 in)

    G13592377Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  10. Adjust the teeth contact of the front differential and drive pinion. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR690)>Drive Pinion>ADJUSTMENT .
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

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.