Differential Assembly: Service and Repair

Removal
1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the rear wheel and tire assemblies.

3. CAUTION: Index-mark the driveshaft flange and pinion flange to maintain initial balance during installation.





Remove the driveshaft.

4. CAUTION: Index-mark the brake discs and the wheel studs prior to brake disc removal.





Remove the rear brake discs.





5. Remove the RABS sensors from the rear disc brake adapters.

6. CAUTION: Secure the axle housing to the jack with a suitable strap.





Support the rear axle housing with a suitable hi-lift jack.





7. Disconnect the shock absorbers at the axle.





8. Disconnect the rear suspension arm and bushings at the axle.





9. Lower the axle slightly, and remove the springs.





10. Disconnect the rear suspension lower arms at the axle.
11. Remove the axle.

Installation
1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

CAUTION: Position the suspension at curb ride height before tightening the rear suspension lower arm and the rear suspension arm and bushing retaining bolts.





2. Check and, as necessary, add the specified lubricant to the level shown, approximately 1.7 - 1.85 liters (3.25 - 3.50 pints), and install the filler plug.