AWD Axle Assembly

4]�;Fig. 2 Disassembled View Of All Wheel Drive Axle Assembly:

The rear axle, Fig. 2, assembly is an integral type housing hypoid gear design with the center line of the pinion offset (set below) the center line of the ring gear.

The hypoid gear set consists of a 4.75 inch diameter ring gear and an overhung drive pinion which is supported by two opposed tapered roller bearings. Pinion bearing preload is maintained by selected shims on the pinion shaft and adjusted by shims.

The housing assembly consists of a cast center and tube assembly with integral cast suspension attaching gears and a stamped rear plate. The plate uses a silicone sealant than a conventional type gasket.

The differential case is a one piece design with two openings to allow for assembly of internal components and lubricant flow. The differential pinion shaft is retained with a roll pin assembled to the case. The differential case assembly is mounted in the carrier between two opposed tapered roller bearings. The bearings are retained in the carrier by removable end caps.

Differential bearing preload and ring gear backlash is adjusted by the use of shims located between the differential bearing cone and the differential case assembly.

The axle shafts are held in the housing by snap rings positioned in a slot on the axle shaft splined end.