Tools Required

Important: Ring gear mounting bolts are left-handed thread.

1. Mark the location of the gears to the differential assembly.
2. Remove the 12 front differential carrier bolts (906) from the front differential assembly (904).
3. Remove the transfer case drive ring gear (903), AWD only, from the front differential assembly (904).
4. Remove the driven ring gear (905) from the front differential assembly (904).

1. Install both axles, and place the front differential assembly (904) on V-blocks as shown.
2. Using SA9179NE , measure the backlash of the pinion gears (956) and (958).

Specification
The backlash of the pinion gears are 0.05-0.15 mm (0.002-0.006 in)

3. If the backlash is out of specification, replace the front differential assembly (904).

1. Inspect the gears for signs of tooth damage or wear.
2. Inspect all mating surfaces for burrs or damage:

•	If using the gears again, align to the marks during removal.

•	Ensure the flat, machined side of the driven ring gear is facing the flat, machined side of the front differential assembly. See the illustration insert.

3. Install the driven ring gear (905) on the front differential assembly (904).
4. Install the drive ring gear (903) on the front differential carrier assembly (904).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

5. Install the front differential carrier M10 x 1.0 x 35 mm bolts (906).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 101 N·m (74.5 lb ft).

Important: Tapered roller bearing(s) and outer race(s) should be replaced as a set. Refer to Transmission Case Front Differential Bearing Race Replacement .

1. Using SA9211T-2  (1), J 22912-B  (2), and a shaft protector (3), remove the front differential tapered front roller bearing (902).
2. Using SA9211T-2  (1), J 22912-B  (2), and a shaft protector (3), remove the front differential tapered rear roller bearing (907).

Important: Ensure that the bearings are pressed on completely. There should be no clearance between the bearing and the front differential assembly.

1. Using the 45 mm end of DT 46432 and a hydraulic press, install the front differential tapered front roller bearing (902) on the front differential assembly.
2. Using the 45 mm end of DT 46432 and a hydraulic press, install the front differential tapered rear roller bearing (907) on the front differential assembly.