Monday, April 21, 2014

Differential Repair: The Know How’s

A differential is the mechanical device that divides the engine torque and allows each output to spin at a different speed. There are front-wheel-drive differentials, rear-wheel-drive differentials and all-wheel-drive differentials. Differentials and axles that make banging or clunking noises should not be driven and require immediate differential repair. Banging or clunking differential parts can cause damage to otherwise good parts if driven.

Differential repair isn’t simple. You have to have the right kind of tools, including specific gear and bearing pullers, calipers, micrometers, rubber mallet, sledge hammer, pry bar and a complete set of socket wrenches. And you will need a setup to lift the car off the ground so you can get to the differential, usually on the rear axle.

Differential repair include the axles; axle housings with substantial oil leaks require immediate attention and should not be driven unless the oil can be topped off and the drive is only a few miles. Minor oil leaks can be driven for a while, but will eventually result in a lack of lubrication and may indicate problems with other parts. When your differential shudders and pops when you turn after it warms up, differential repair is surely require immediately. This is called “posi chatter” and can be an indication of worn limited slip differential clutches or lack or positraction antifriction additive. A minor shudder can indicate the normal performance of an aggressive limited slip differential as the clutches bind and release on corners. If the differential is noisy and the vehicle can be driven, differential repair companies would recommend you to have the vehicle to be brought to the shop and be assessed as soon as possible.

If you are into the DIY differential repair, you can drain the oil from the differential, you have to disconnect the drives shaft, remove the differential cover and the axles. Then you must remove the carrier caps with the pry bar. You may also have to remove the ring and pinion bearings. And if the repair requires you to remove the carrier bearings, you will need to use a bearing puller. Thus, you are good to go for inspection.

Calvin's Transmission
6204 North Nebraska Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604
813-231-2171

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