Differential Side Bearing Preload

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

NOTE:

Differential side bearing preload is controlled and adjusted by means of select-thickness shims sandwiched between the side bearing cups and the housing/cover.

NOTE:

For accurate results, differential side bearing preload must only be measured when the pinion housing assembly is removed from the axle.

Fig 1: Pinion Housing Bolts

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

Remove pinion housing-to-axle housing bolts (1). Refer to Fig 1.

Fig 2: Pinion Depth Shim
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Remove pinion housing and depth shim (1) from axle assembly. Refer to Fig 2.

Fig 3: Measure Differential Rotating Torque
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Install Torque Tool (special tool #C-4995A, Tool, Differential Bearing Torque) (1) to differential housing as shown in illustration. Refer to Fig 3. Measure and record differential rotating torque. Differential rotating torque should be within 190-260 N.m (17-23 in. lbs.). If rotating torque is below this range, disassemble housing, measure and install slightly thicker preload shims (1). Add thickness equally to both sides. If rotating torque is above this range, disassemble housing, measure and install slightly thinner preload shims. Remove thickness equally from both sides.

Fig 4: Differential And Seal Removal/installation
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Remove axle housing cover (5) and differential assembly (3). Refer to Fig 4.

Fig 5: Install Tool 6514
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Remove differential side bearing cup from axle housing cover. Install Bearing Remover (special tool #6514, Remover, Bearing Cup) (1). Refer to Fig 5.

Fig 6: Removing Differential Side Bearing Cup (Cover)
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Remove differential side bearing cup with Bearing Remover (special tool #6514, Remover, Bearing Cup) (1). Refer to Fig 6.

Fig 7: Side Bearing Preload Shim
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Remove side bearing preload shim (1). Refer to Fig 7.

Fig 8: Measure Side Bearing Preload Shim
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Measure preload shim (1) to identify for replacement. Refer to Fig 8.

Fig 9: Side Bearing Preload Shim
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Install new differential side bearing preload shim (1) into axle housing cover (2). Refer to Fig 9.

Fig 10: Installing Side Bearing Cup (Cover)
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Using Handle (special tool #C-4171, Driver Handle, Universal) and Installer (special tool #D-129, Installer, Bearing Cup) press new side bearing cup into cover until it bottoms. Use suitable cup (3) to support and protect cover.

Fig 11: Removing Inner Diff Side Bearing Cup
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Using Remover (special tool #9664, Remover, Bearing Cup) (1) and Slide Hammer (special tool #C-637, Slide Hammer, Universal) (2) , remove differential side bearing (inboard) cup. Refer to Fig 11.

Fig 12: Measure Side Bearing Preload Shim
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Measure preload shim (1) to identify for replacement.
Install new differential side bearing preload shim (1) into axle housing. Refer to Fig 12.
Using Handle (special tool #C-4171, Driver Handle, Universal) and Installer (special tool #D-145, Installer, Bearing Cup), press differential side bearing cup into housing until it bottoms.

Fig 13: Differential And Seal Removal/installation
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Install differential/ring gear assembly (3), new cover O-ring seal (4), and cover (5). Refer to Fig 13.
Install and torque cover-to-housing bolts to:
- M10x40 - 65 N.m (48 ft. lbs.)
- M8x25 - 34 N.m (25 ft. lbs.)
Fig 14: Measure Differential Rotating Torque
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Again verify rotating torque measurement (1). Refer to Fig 14. Repeat adjustment procedure until proper rotating torque is obtained.

Fig 15: Pinion Depth Shim
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Install pinion housing assembly and depth shim (1). Refer to Fig 15. Use new O-ring on housing.

Fig 16: Pinion Housing Bolts
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
Install and torque pinion housing-to-axle housing bolts (1) to 34 N.m (25 ft. lbs.). Refer to Fig 16).