E. Inspect Differential Mounting Bracket

1. Loosen the right and left side exhaust band clamps (Figure 12).

2. Remove the center exhaust isolator.





3. Remove the two rear muffler isolators (Figure 13).

4. Remove the muffler/rear exhaust pipes as an assembly.

5. Remove the inner axle shaft universal joint straps from the left axle shaft.

NOTE:
Mark universal joint cap for later installation.

6. Remove the inner axle shaft universal joint straps from the right axle shaft.

NOTE:
Mark universal joint cap for later installation.

7. Remove the universal joint bolts and straps at the rear of the driveshaft.

NOTE:
Mark universal joint cap for later installation.

8. Remove the driveshaft assembly from the transmission.

9. Remove the pinion-to-crossmember mounting bolts from the front of the axle assembly.

10. Secure the differential assembly to a transmission jack or other suitable lifting device.

11. Remove the right and left differential mounting bolts.

12. Remove differential assembly from the vehicle.





13 Inspect the aluminum differential pinion crossmember for cracks (Figure 14). If any cracks are found, replace the crossmember (P/N 04763524AB) as follows:

NOTE:
The differential pinion crossmember has a slight off-set built into it. Correct orientation of the new crossmember must be maintained.

a. Using a magic marker or equivalent, place a mark on the forward side of the original crossmember.

b. Remove the two crossmember retaining nuts and bolts.

c. Remove the aluminum crossmember.

d. Verify the orientation of the new crossmember and then place it in position and install the retaining bolts and nuts.

e. Tighten the retaining nuts to 100 ft. lbs. (135 N.m).





14. Inspect all sides of the left differential mounting bracket for weld cracking at the frame rail and at the toe link brackets (Figure 15).

^ If there are differential mounting bracket weld cracks, continue with Section "F - Fuel Tank Removal - Roadster" or Section "G - Fuel Tank Removal - Coupe."

^ If there are no weld cracks, continue with Section "M - Install Differential."