Rear Axle - 198RII: Differential: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: 198 Axle Clamped In Vise

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Clamp rear axle assembly into bench vise (1).

Fig 2: Drain Plug Removal/Installation
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Remove drain plug (1) and drain fluid into container suitable for reuse.
Install drain plug and torque to 60 N.m (44 ft. lbs.).

Fig 3: Measuring Rotating Torque
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Using suitable torque wrench (1), measure and record rear axle assembly total turning torque.

Fig 4: Axle Seal Removal
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Using suitable screwdriver (1), remove both axle seals (2).

Fig 5: Axle Housing Cover and Bolts
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Remove twelve axle cover-to-housing bolts (1) and remove cover (2).

Fig 6: Spreader Adapters 9226
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Install spreader adapters (1), Tool 9226, as shown in Fig 6. Adapters contain two hole patterns and are labeled accordingly.

Fig 7: Spreader W-129-B Installed
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Install spreader, Tool W-129-B (1), as shown Fig 7.

Fig 8: Measuring Carrier Spread
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Set up Dial Indicator Set C-3339-A to measure housing spread as shown Fig 8.
- Clamp SP-5426 (1)
- Post SP-5425-B (2)
- Metric Dial Indicator 9524 (3)
Fig 9: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader
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Spread axle housing no more than 0.30 mm (0.012 in.).

Fig 10: Snap Ring Removal/Installation
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NOTE: The differential side bearing snap rings are select-fit, and control ring gear backlash and differential side bearing preload. It is important to return original snap rings to their original position.
Using suitable snap ring pliers (2), compress and remove differential side bearing snap rings (1). Identify and tag for proper reuse.

Fig 11: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader
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Back off W-129-B spreader (1) to relax tension on housing.

Fig 12: Measuring Side Bearing Snap Ring
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Measure snap ring thickness and record for future use.

Fig 13: Removing/Installing Side Bearing Cups
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Install Tool 9522 (1) into one side of housing and push inward to release differential side bearing cup (2) from opposite side. Repeat for other bearing.

Fig 14: Removing/Installing Differential
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Remove differential assembly from axle housing.
NOTE: Note: If difficulty removing differential is encountered due to interference with W-129-B spreader and adapter plates, remove spreader and adapter plates to facilitate removal.