Axle Disassembly

Fig. 1 Differential exploded view. Model 44:

Fig. 2 Differential exploded view. Model 60:

Fig. 3 Drive axle exploded view. Model 60:

Fig. 4 Drive axle exploded view. Model 70:

1. Raise and support vehicle and disconnect propeller shaft from companion flange.
2. Remove axle housing cover and drain lubricant, then remove axle shafts as outlined in service section.
3. Clean housing and inner components, then check the following assembly adjustments to aid diagnosis and reassembly: Refer to "Final Assembly and Adjustment" for actual checking procedures.
a. Check ring gear and pinion tooth contact pattern using suitable marking compound. If contact pattern is not centered, check for improper backlash or pinion installation during inspection.
b. Measure ring gear runout using suitable dial indicator. If runout exceeds 0.006 inch, check for improper ring gear mounting or defective ring gear and/or case during inspection.
c. Check ring gear and pinion backlash using suitable dial indicator. If gear set is to be reused, and contact pattern is acceptable, backlash should be adjusted to original value during final assembly to maintain established tooth contact.
d. Check clearance between bearing and bearing cap, prying against case. If a 0.003 inch feeler gauge can be inserted between race and cap, check for spun side bearings.
4. Note or punch matching marks between differential side bearing caps and housing, then remove bearing caps.

Fig. 5 Typical case spreader installation:

5. Install suitable case spreader and dial indicator on housing as shown, preloading indicator approximately 1/2 revolution. Ensure that mounting dowels are fully seated in housing and that clamps are securing spreader in proper position.
6. Zero dial indicator, then rotate spreader screw to spread housing 0.015 inch.Do not spread housing more than 0.020 inch, as housing will be permanently distorted.
7. Remove dial indicator, then the differential case and side bearing races from housing. Place bearing races with respective caps.
8. Remove spreader, then on front drive models, remove inner oil seal using suitable drift or axle shaft.
9. Measure pinion rotating torque (bearing preload) using suitable torque wrench. If preload is not within specifications, or if end play is present, pinion must be disassembled for inspection.
10. Hold companion flange with suitable tool and remove pinion nut and washer.
11. Remove companion flange with suitable puller, then pry pinion seal from housing.
12. Press drive pinion and rear bearing assembly from housing, taking care not to damage pinion.
13. Remove pinion preload shims from pinion and retain for assembly, then press bearing from pinion.
14. Remove front bearing, seal, gasket and slinger from housing, as equipped.
15. Drive pinion bearing races from housing using brass drift, place races with respective bearings, then remove pinion depth adjusting shims and retain for assembly.
16. Inspect components as outlined in "Cleaning and Inspection," keeping components in order, and replace as needed.Components that are to be reused must be installed in original position to ensure proper operation.