ARB RD158 - Manual (Page 10)

2 Removing the Existing Differential
8
2.6 Removing the Differential Center
IMPORTANT:
SPREAD THE HOUSING FOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION OF
DIFFERENTIALS (IF APPLICABLE)
Spreading the differential housing with a differential case
spreader is a step which is critical to set up bearing pre-load
on cast iron differential housings (See Figure 3.). Improper
pre-load will result in undue bearing wear, increased stresses
in the differential center, increased running noise, and
ultimately, ring and pinion gear damage.
 Unbolt and remove both bearing caps from the differential housing.
HINT : Be sure not to mix up the left and right hand bearing
cups. Later it will be necessary to know which cup
came from which side.
 Carefully spread the housing (Fig.3.) enough to remove the
differential center. (Refer to your vehicle’s service manual).
NOTE : Do not spread the housing more than 0.50mm [0.020”].
 Once the housing has been adequately spread, the differential may
be removed by pulling forward on the differential carrier.
Figure 3.
NOTE : The differential center is heavy and quite difficult to
handle when covered in oil. Take care not to drop it.
 Relieve any tension on the spreader immediately after the
differential has been removed.