Install Motivation:
Leaky differentials can be messy on the driveway. Also, when installing an aftermarket differential cover, such as the GReddy high capacity differential cover, it is always recommended to use a new differential gasket cover. This modification is recommended when doing other things to the differential, such as changing out the internals, fixing a gasket leak, or changing out the oem differential bushings for solid ones.
Overall Install Time:
Approximately 15-20 minutes if the differential is already removed from the vehicle. Approximately 60 minutes if differential needs to be dropped.
Install Difficulty (out of 5 stars, 5 being the most difficult):
1 star if differential is already removed from the vehicle, 2 stars if differential needs to be dropped.
Recommended Tools for Install:
- Standard socket set and ratchet
- Combination wrench set
- Rubber mallet to loosen differential cover
- PB Blaster/penetrating oil
- Transmission jack for lowering differential
- Jack and jack stands
Preparation and Install:
If the differential is still installed on the car, you will need to jack up the car and place it on jack stands. The differential is connected to the axles via 6 bolts and nuts on either side. There are 4 bolts and nuts attaching the differential to the driveshaft. It is connected to the subframe via 2 or 4 nuts and 2 bolts in the front.
Although you can remove the differential as-is, it is potentially significantly easier if you also remove the rear sway bar and possibly exhaust (if you have an aftermarket one). A transmission jack is handy for lowering the differential to the ground. A second person also helps.
The GReddy high capacity differential cover comes with new studs and an internal baffle. You will need to reuse the nuts, breather, drain, and fill bolts from your stock cover.
Placing the differential on 2 jack stands helps with removal of the cover and draining of the fluid. Once the fluid is drained, you can remove the 8 bolts holding the differential cover to the differential. After that is removed, clean the gasket area. You can use a razor, alcohol, and some towels. After you place the DiF differential gasket onto the differential, you can place differential cover back on and bolt everything back up.
Install is opposite of removal.