Differential Housing Cover: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Make sure the machined surfaces on both the rear axle housing and the differential housing cover are clean and free of oil before installing the new silicone sealant. The inside of the rear axle must be covered when cleaning the machined surface to prevent contamination.

Clean the gasket mating surface of the rear axle and the differential housing cover.

Fig 1: Applying Sealer To Cover

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Apply a new continuous bead of sealant to the differential housing cover.

Fig 2: Identifying Differential Housing Cover Bolts

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: The differential housing cover must be installed within 15 minutes of application of the silicone, or new sealant must be applied. If possible, allow one hour before filling with lubricant to make sure the silicone sealant has correctly cured.

Install the differential housing cover and 10 bolts.
- Tighten to 45 Nm (33 lb-ft).

Fig 3: Locating Filler Plug (With Fill Specification)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: First fill the rear axle with 118 ml (4 oz) of friction modifier.

NOTE: Service refill capacities are determined by filling the rear axle to the level shown.

Remove the filler plug, fill the rear axle with 2.54L (5.37 pt) of rear axle lubricant and install the filler plug.
- Tighten to 52 Nm (38 lb-ft).