A Simple 7 Step Process To remove Your Diff Carrier

Follow this process for easy diff carrier removal.

Step 1: Drain fluid from the diff.

If you haven’t already, get a drain pan and drain the gear fluid from the differential. You can do this using the drain plug near the rear. Optionally, you can skip to step 2 and let it drain as you remove the rear cover.

Step 2: Remove the differential cover.

There are 8, 14mm bolts. It’s probably glued on, so you may need to gently pry the cover off once all the bolts are removed.

Step 3: Remove the Stub axles.

They’re generally easy to remove and are held in with “C” clips. It doesn’t take much force to get them to move. Simply insert a prying device between the outer case and the wheel speed tone ring and give it a little tap. It should start to release. If you plan to retain wheel speed, make sure not to damage this ring.

Do this until you can slid the stub out and then repeat on the other side.

This is what the stub axle will look like when removed.

Step 4: Remove the carrier caps.

There are 2 17mm bolts per cap. These caps hold the carrier down, securing it to the case. Remove them quickly with an impact gun.

Step 5: Pry the carrier out.

This is a little fiddly. You’ll need to use a pry bar to separate the carrier from the case. It’ll come straight out towards you. Once it starts moving, it’ll come out easily. Don’t let it smash your toes.

Step 6: Remove the bearing cups and shims.

There is a “cup” bearing and a shim on both sides of the carrier. Make sure to retain all 4 pieces, as you’ll need them when you reassemble your diff.

Step 7: Remove the Ring gear.

There are 10 17mm bolts holding the ring gear on. Use your impact gun to remove them. They’re secured with Loctite, so it’ll take some effort otherwise.

Sometimes the ring gear will just fall off. Other times it’ll need a little help. If so, you can thread in one of the bolts a couple turns and then give it a gentle tap with a hammer. Once it starts moving, you’ll be able to get it off.