Removing rear differential

[GHendo]

Can't find anything specifically on this topic on the forum so I'll ask.

I'm wanting to install a rear air locker in my NP Di-D and the bloke who is going to install the locker in the acutal diff carrier said I could save a heap of dollars if I remove the diff from the vehicle myself and just take that into him - I'll also have to install the compressor, of course.

I've had a bit of a read of the manual but thought I'd ask if anyone has had personal experience doing this job - ie. getting the rear diff carrier in and out of the vehicle.

The manual talks about removing the brakes etc., but I thought it might be possible by just disconnecting the axles from the companion shafts, althought as yet I haven't got under and had a good look with this job in mind.

Geoff

[dolphin]

if this guy only needs the actual center main rear diff, its a pretty straight forward job to remove this. you need to unbolt the drive shaft end plus unbolt both rear axle ends then undo all retaining bolts that hold the diff in place to chassis / frame and maybe a few other bits like brake lines could need removing from diff brackets.

[GHendo]

That's what I was hoping - couldn't see why I would need to remove the axles unless they were in the way of getting diff out or something.

Cheers

Geoff

[Goodsy]

If it's so easy why would you save so much?? Sounds like about an hours labour.

[mrbitchi]

While you have the diff out it may be a good idea to replace the 4 mounting bushes. To get the front bushes out is a pain. You have to drop the fuel tank cause MM put one of the bolts in the wrong way round. You'll see what I mean if you crawl under there.
Undoing the mounts is actually the correct way to remove the diff according to the manual. If your mechanic has a hoist I'd leave it to them.

[psproule]

While I havent pulled one out I've often wondered if it mightn't be easier just to drop the whole rear sub-frame out to get at it. Particularly on any fitted with Aux tanks.

Pat

[4wd26]

If it's so easy why would you save so much?? Sounds like about an hours labour.

yep but it ties up a hoist in the workshop for the entire time the diff is out of a vehicle, a whole day

not real good in a multi person workshop, or even a diff specialist shop

[GHendo]

yep but it ties up a hoist in the workshop for the entire time the diff is out of a vehicle, a whole day

not real good in a multi person workshop, or even a diff specialist shop

You hit it in one - that is what the bloke said. I don't have the time right now to do it - maybe in a week or so when things settle down. Will let you know how it goes. Gee, I'm not impressed with "mrbitchi's" idea of possibly having to drop the bloody fuel tank - hope I don't have to do that but I'm pleased you mentioned it as I'll make sure the tank is practically empty when I do the job - just in case

Cheers

Geoff

[Goodsy]

Forgot about a hoist. So used to working under 4bys on concrete, grass and gravel.

[schnitzel]

Forgot about a hoist. So used to working under 4bys on concrete, grass and gravel.

after doing that for years I now have a hoist at home ( soon to be 2) and it is magic.

[GHendo]

after doing that for years I now have a hoist at home ( soon to be 2) and it is magic.

Which one have you got mate - something I dream about but haven't really know anyone who has had one to recommend.

Geoff