ARB RD129 - Manual (Page 10)

2 Removing the Existing Differential
8
2.6 Spreading the Differential Housing
IMPORTANT:
Spreading the differential housing with a differential case
spreader is a step which is critical to set up bearing pre-load
when a differential is installed. 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.
c Unbolt and remove the bearing caps.
c Setup the differential spreader and a dial indicator and carefully
spread the differential housing (Fig.3.) just enough to remove the
differential carrier (Refer to your vehicle’s service manual).
NOTE : Never spread the housing more than 0.5mm [0.020”].
c Once the housing has been adequately spread, the differential may
be removed by pulling forward on the differential center.
c Remove spreader tension.
Figure 3.