Rear Differential

The rear differential assembly serves to convert the "angle of drive" through 90 degrees and distribute drive, in the desired proportions, to both rear wheels. See Figure . The type of rear differential installed is an integral carrier housing hypoid-gear in which the center line of the drive pinion is mounted below the center line of the ring gear. To minimize weight, the differential housing is manufactured in aluminum alloy. The assembly is secured to the rear subframe by 3 mounts with rubber bushings.

The differential housing incorporates the drive pinion gear shaft, which is supported by 2 opposed taper roller bearings installed to the pinion and cups assembled into the carrier housing. The pinion bearing preload is controlled by a collapsible spacer and the torque of the pinion nut. The pinion position is controlled by a selective shim located between the inner pinion bearing cone and the pinon gear head.

The differential is supported by 2 opposed taper roller bearings. The bearing cups are secured in the housing by removable bearing caps. Shims are located between the differential bearing cones and differential case for controlling differential bearing preload and ring gear to pinion gear backlash.

The differential casing rear cover is manufactured from pressed steel and is sealed to the casing with RTV silicone sealant. The cover also incorporates the oil filler plug. A breather is located in the top of the differential casing to prevent pressurization of the casing.

The pinion oil seal, which is installed in the differential casing is referred to as a "labyrinth" type seal and is especially designed to prevent contaminant ingress. The oil seal works in conjunction with a pressed steel shield, referred to as an "oil slinger" which is pressed onto the pinion drive flange. The 2 axle shafts are also sealed by "labyrinth" type oil seals installed in the differential housing.

The differential oil level should be maintained to the bottom of the filler plug. No oil changes are specified unless contamination is suspected.