Installation

Rear Axle - 286RBI / DIFFERENTIAL

INSTALLATION

NOTE: If replacement differential bearings or differential case are being installed, differential side bearing shim requirements may change. Refer to Adjustments (Differential Bearing Preload and Gear Backlash) procedures to determine proper shim selection.

1. Position Spreader W-129-B with the tool dowel pins seated in the locating holes. Install the hold down clamps and tighten the tool turnbuckle fingertight.
2. Install a Pilot Stud C-3288-B at the left side of the differential housing and attach dial indicator to the pilot stud. Load the indicator plunger against the opposite side of the housing and zero the dial indicator.
3. Spread the housing enough to install the case in the housing. Measure the distance with the dial indicator.

CAUTION: Never spread the housing over 0.50 mm (0.020 inch). If housing is over-spread, it could be distorted or damaged.

4. Remove the dial indicator.





5. Install differential into the housing. Tap the differential case with a rawhide/rubber hammer to ensure the bearings are seated in housing (Fig. 32).
6. Remove the spreader.





7. Install bearing caps in their original locations (Fig. 33) and tighten bearing cap bolts in a crisscross pattern to 109 Nm (80 ft. lbs.).
8. Install axle shafts.
9. Install the hub bearings.





10. Apply a bead of red Mopar Silicone Rubber Sealant or equivalent to the housing cover (Fig. 34).

CAUTION: If housing cover is not installed within 3 to 5 minutes, the cover must be cleaned and new RTV applied or adhesion quality will be compromised.

11. Install the cover and tighten bolts in a crisscross pattern to 47 Nm (35 ft. lbs.).
12. Fill the differential with Mopar Hypoid Gear Lubricant or equivalent to bottom of the fill plug hole.
13. Install fill hole plug and tighten to 34 Nm (25 ft. lbs.).
14. Remove support and lower vehicle.