carrier removal

[swamp rat]

I read one threads where a guy pulled the diff assy out of his dana 44 to change the inner seals and said it was ok as long as you put the carrier bearing retainor caps back on the same sides. I understsnt all about the contact pattern and its importance. I would like to change the seals too. Is it ok to do this leaving the pinion alone and not fear the contact pattern being messed up? Is there any shims to worry about?
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[76k10]

Originally Posted by swamp rat

I read one threads where a guy pulled the diff assy out of his dana 44 to change the inner seals and said it was ok as long as you put the carrier bearing retainor caps back on the same sides. I understsnt all about the contact pattern and its importance. I would like to change the seals too. Is it ok to do this leaving the pinion alone and not fear the contact pattern being messed up? Is there any shims to worry about?
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I pulled the chunk out of my 44 to do inner seals about a year ago. Threw it back in exactly as it came out and I've have no issues.

[mjensen]

As long as you pay close attention to how you pull it apart. Caps and shims MUST go back on the same sides. It should be good.

[Bigdav160]

Do not worry. The disassembly/reassembly you're proposing, will not change any adjustments

But the caps must go their original side and orientation. Mark them somehow. I usually use a center punch.

The side shims on a Dana 44 are under the bearing. You cannot mix them up by removing the differential case. The case should be tight in the housing (carrier). Proper procedure with a Dana is to use a spreader to get the case and ring gear back in.

The pinion depth shims are under the bearing race. The pinion bearing preload is also done by shim and not a crush collar. So removing the pinion doesn't cause any worry about adjustments.

[swamp rat]

Originally Posted by Bigdav160

The side shims on a Dana 44 are under the bearing. You cannot mix them up by removing the differential case. The case should be tight in the housing (carrier). Proper procedure with a Dana is to use a spreader to get the case and ring gear back in.

I read this late last night, now I'm concerned that if i am successful at pulling it out that I'll have trouble putting it back in without this spreader tool, have you done this without the tool??



thanks for the words on the shims too, that was part of my concern

[swamp rat]

Just found this with a Google search:

http://www.pavementsucks.com/tech-article-3.html

Can anybody tell me how heavy the carrier is?

[Bigdav160]

An open ring gear and case (I'm a stickler for terminology) weighs, maybe. 10 lbs.

I don't know if your axle is installed in the vehicle but, I seem to remember, it will not come out without disconnecting the steering link.

[LONGHAIR]

You do not need the case spreader for a Dana44. That is a Dana60 thing. The 44's carrier should come out with a bit of prying.

[swamp rat]

Originally Posted by LONGHAIR

You do not need the case spreader for a Dana44. That is a Dana60 thing. The 44's carrier should come out with a bit of prying.

How big a pry bar? And again can a guy do this by himself? Thanks
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[birdistheword]

If you would like some help I live right on base next to you.

[fp1967]

Yes, it's pretty easy to handle by yourself on a Dana 44.

[swamp rat]

Well i got it out, just hope to hell i can get it back in again tomorrow! LOL! Axle tubes are cleaned and the seals are installed.

As for the next 6 hoiurs, the sun is out and the wife wants to go to the fair and being as she bought tickets i better oblige or i'll be in the dog house.

[swamp rat]

Birdistheword if i have troubles tomorrow i'll contact you.

[swamp rat]

Thanks everyone for the help, I got it out yesterday, cleaned out the tubes and installed new inner seals and put it back in this morning.