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How to Replace a Rear Differential

for all vehicles ( View guide for your vehicle )
Parts needed: Suggest Parts
Gear Oil Differential Cover Gasket
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Tools needed: Suggest Tools
Automatic Center Punch Socket and Ratchet Set
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Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $1,361.07 parts only Shop Costs
Est. $1,892.42 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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1
 
Secure the vehicle on a level surface, making sure your vehicle will not roll or lean when jacked up. edit step - submit photo
2
 
Break the rear wheel lug nuts loose but do not remove. Using a floor jack, lift up the rear of your vehicle. edit step - submit photo
3
 
Secure the vehicle with jack stands on both sides for safety before starting any work. The pinch welds or the frame rails are the two best locations. Do not rely on the jack to hold the vehicle up while working. edit step - submit photo
Jack stands supporting the vehicle from both sides
4
 
Remove the lug nuts. Remove the rear wheels. edit step - submit photo
5
 
Locate and place an oil pan under the rear differential. Remove the differential cover and drain the gear oil. Inspect for any metal flakes and damage in the differential.  edit step - submit photo
6
 
Remove the brake drums. edit step - submit photo
7
 
Unbolt the retaining flange that is holding the axle seal, bearing, and collar in the axle. edit step - submit photo
8
 
Slide the axle out of the axle tube. Repeat for the other side. edit step - submit photo
9
 
Remove the differential carrier. Be careful not to damage the gasket sealing surface when removing the unit. Place both R and L bearing assemblies and shims in sets with the marked differential bearing caps so they can be reinstalled in their original positions. edit step - submit photo
10
 
Inspect the differential carrier housing for foreign material. Check the ring and pinion for chipped teeth, excessive wear and scoring.  Check the carrier bearings visually and by feel. Clean the differential housing and replace, as necessary. edit step - submit photo
11
 
Install the differential carrier. Check the carrier bearing preload and ring and pinion backlash, and adjust as necessary. Tighten the differential bearing cap bolts to manufacturer’s specified torque. edit step - submit photo
12
 
Reinstall axle into the axle tube. edit step - submit photo
13
 
Spin the axle until the splines match up with the gears in the differential; the axle should slide all to way into position. edit step - submit photo
14
 
Tighten axle retaining flange. Repeat for the other side. edit step - submit photo
15
 
Install the carrier cover using a new gasket. Tighten the carrier bolts to the specified torque. Add the proper type and amount of gear oil to axle assembly. edit step - submit photo
16
 
Reinstall the brake drums. edit step - submit photo
17
 
Reinstall the wheel. edit step - submit photo
18
 
Torque lug nuts to manufacturer’s specifications. edit step - submit photo
19
 
Road test the vehicle and look for leaks to verify the rear differential repair. edit step - submit photo
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