Axle Disassembly

1. Drain lubricant from axle housing and remove axle shafts.
2. Disconnect propeller shaft from companion flange, tape bearing caps to universal joint spider and secure shaft aside.
3. Remove bolts securing carrier to axle housing and the lockwashers, support carrier and remove carrier assembly from axle housing.
4. Mount carrier assembly in suitable holding fixture.
5. Loosen ring gear thrust pad locknut and remove thrust pad.
6. Remove side bearing adjuster locks, bearing cap bolts and lock washers.
7. Mark position of bearing caps for assembly, then remove bearing caps by tapping cap bosses with soft faced hammer. Do not pry caps from carrier as they may be damaged. Keep all components in order to aid assembly.
8. Remove differential case assembly from case, along with side bearing outer races, and place races with respective bearing caps.
9. Remove bolts securing pinion bearing housing to carrier, then separate pinion housing from carrier by tapping with soft faced hammer.
10. Inspect components as outlined and replace as needed. Keep all components in order so that any component to be reused can be installed in original position.