Differential Case

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Infiniti QX4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install side gears, pinion mate gears and thrust washers into differential case.

Fig 1: Installing Side Gears, Pinion Mate Gears And Thrust Washers Into Differential Case
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Fit pinion mate shaft to differential case so that it meets lock pin holes.
Adjust backlash between side gear and pinion mate gear by selecting side gear thrust washer.
Refer to SDS, SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS (SDS) .
1. Backlash between side gear and pinion mate gear (Clearance between side gear thrust washer and differential case):
  1. Less than 0.15 mm (0.0059 in)
Fig 2: Measuring Backlash Between Side Gear And Pinion Mate Gear
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Install pinion mate shaft lock pin with a punch.
Make sure lock pin is flush with case.

Fig 3: Installing Pinion Mate Shaft Lock Pin
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Apply gear oil to gear tooth surfaces and thrust surfaces and check to see they turn properly.

Fig 4: Applying Gear Oil To Gear Tooth Surfaces And Thrust Surfaces
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Install differential case assembly on ring gear.
Apply genuine medium strength thread locking sealant or equivalent to ring gear bolts, and install them. Refer to GI section, "Recommended chemical products and sealants".
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern, lightly tapping bolt head with a hammer.

Fig 5: Applying Genuine Medium Strength Thread Locking Sealant
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Press-fit side bearing inner cones on differential case with Tool.
1. Tool number:
  1. A KV38100300 (J25523)
  2. B ST33061000 (J8107-2)
Fig 6: Press-Fitting Side Bearing Inner Cones On Differential Case
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.