Section 34 (Rear Axle - 8 1/4): Differential: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Dakota and 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Apply a coating of hypoid gear lubricant to the differential bearings, bearing cups and threaded adjusters. A dab of grease can be used to keep the adjusters in position. Carefully position the assembled differential case in the housing.
- Install differential bearing caps in their original locations (Fig 1 ).
- Install bearing cap bolts and tighten the upper bolts to 14 N.m (10 ft. lbs.). Tighten the lower bolts finger-tight until the bolt head is seated.
- Perform the differential bearing preload and adjustment procedure.
- Tighten bearing cap bolts in a criss-cross pattern to 95 N.m (70 ft.lbs).
- Install adjuster locks on the bearing caps.
- Install axle shafts.
- Apply a bead of red Mopar Silicone Rubber Sealant or equivalent to the housing cover (Fig 2
).
CAUTION: If cover is not installed within 3 to 5 minutes, the cover must be cleaned and new RTV applied or adhesion quality will be compromised.
- Install cover and tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to 41 N.m (30 ft. lbs.).
- Fill differential with gear lubricant to bottom of the fill plug hole.
- Install the fill hole plug.
- Install wheel and tire assemblies.
- Remove support and lower vehicle.
- Trac-lok° differential equipped vehicles should be road tested by making 10 to 12 slow figure-eight turns. This maneuver will pump the lubricant through the clutch discs to eliminate a possible chatter noise complaint.