Removal (Except Cherokee 8 1/4" Ring Gear)

Raise and support vehicle. Remove axle shafts. See REAR AXLE SHAFT, BEARING, SEALS & RETAINER . Index mark drive axle and drive shaft yokes for installation. Remove drive shaft.

CAUTION: DO NOT spread housing more than .020" (.50 mm) for Model 216 axle, .015" (.38 mm) for all others, or damage to housing may result.

Fig 1: Spreading Housing To Remove Differential Carrier

Courtesy of CHRYSLER CORP.

Note installation reference letters stamped on bearing caps, and remove bearing caps. Mount Housing Spreader (W-129-B) on axle housing. Mount dial indicator. Spread housing enough to remove differential carrier. See Fig 1 .
Pry differential carrier loose. Index mark bearing cups and outer shims for installation reference. Remove differential carrier. Remove housing spreader. Check pinion preload, and remove pinion gear assembly. See PINION SEAL & YOKE .