Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

A close inspection of the rear axle differential prior to disassembly is important. It can often reveal valuable information concerning the extent and type of repairs or adjustments that are necessary. This information, combined with the road test results, will provide a basis for determining the degree of disassembly required.

Because the most frequent causes of axle differential noise are incorrect ring gear backlash and/or differential bearing preload torque. A few routine adjustments could be all that is necessary to correct the problem. Therefore, before axle differential disassembly, the following measurements should be made:
- Ring gear backlash.
- Drive pinion gear shaft preload torque.

Record and analyze the results. These measurements will aid in determining the extent of the required axle differential service.