Differential Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Montana, 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2002 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Inspect the differential for the following:
- A damaged or restricted vent tube (1)
- Damaged oil seal bores (2)
- Damaged clutch pump check valve bore or bolt threads (3)
- Worn or scored pinion housing bore (4)
- Damage to the exterior of the differential (5)
- Damaged axle shaft splines (2) and/or
- Missing axle shaft snap rings
- Inspect the pinion and housing assembly for the following:
- Worn or damaged splines (1)
- Abnormal pinion gear tooth wear (2)
- Damaged pinion housing O-ring seal groove (3)
- Damaged oil seal (4)
- Worn bearings
Rotate the pinion shaft by hand. The shaft should rotate with minimal resistance and no coarse or rough feeling.