Checking the Axle Before Disassembly

Inspect
1. Remove the axle cover and drain the lubricant.
2. The ring gear backlash. Refer to BACKLASH ADJUSTMENTS. This information can be used to determine the cause of the problem. It will also help when setting up the shim packs for locating and preloading the differential case.
3. The case for metal chips and shavings. Determine where these chips and shavings came from, such as a broken gear or bearing cage.
4. Determine the cause of the axle problem before disassembly if possible.