Differential Removal

Last updated: September 13, 2000

Date: Tue, 12 Sep 2000 18:07:32 -0400
From: Tom Walsh (TWalsh@achieversusa.com)

As far as the half shaft removal... I know that they have to be removed... But I am not really sure how to do it...
I do know that there are two bolts that hold the diff to the rear cross member. 17mm I believe... tough to reach.
Power Plant Frame (PPF) must be removed...
Drive shaft must also be removed. (mark the shaft and the input on the diff to make sure they are lined up again... It just makes one less thing to worry about... You might not have a problem... Better to be safe than sorry)

Word of caution... That thing is BEYOND HEAVY! Get a tranny jack to help you remove and replace the unit from the car. Did I mention it is heavy? Just wanted to touch on that again... VERY HEAVY.

Some things to do while you in there:

Replace the Diff bushings. There are two on each side of the mounting bar that holds the diff to the cross member. Have them pressed out and replaced... If you have a clunk when you put the car in gear, this is where it comes from.
Replace the fuel filter... It will never be easier to do this than when you have the diff out of the car... (1 hour process with the diff in the car, 5 minutes if you have it out.)