Differential Assembly: Disassembly

Place match marks on ring gear and differential case for reassembly reference. Remove 8 bolts. Using a copper hammer, tap ring gear and remove from differential case. See Figure.
On vehicle speed sensor drive gear side, remove tapered roller bearing from differential case using appropriate puller. Remove vehicle speed sensor drive gear. On ring gear side, remove tapered roller bearing from differential case using appropriate puller. Set puller claws at indentation locations on differential case.
Using a dial indicator, measure and record backlash of one side gear while holding one pinion toward case. Backlash should be .002-.008" (.05-.20 mm). See Figure. If backlash is incorrect, drive out pinion shaft straight pin from ring gear side of case. Remove pinion shaft from differential case. Remove pinion gears, side gears and thrust washers from case. Inspect components for damage or wear. Replace as needed.
On transaxle case cover side of transaxle case, using appropriate driver and a hammer, tap out oil seal. Using appropriate puller, remove tapered roller bearing outer race and shim (if necessary). On differential assembly side of transaxle case, using a screwdriver and a hammer, drive out oil seal. Using appropriate puller, remove tapered roller bearing outer race and shim (if necessary).