Jeep 1987 Wrangler Workshop Manual page 926

REAR AXLE
GENERAL SERVICE PROCEDURES
Loosen the bearing cap bolts until only two or
three bolt threads are engaged.
Install spreader tool J 24385-01 on the axle
housing.
Mount djal indicator J 8001 on the housing.
Position the indicator stylus so it contacts one
side of the differential opening in the housing.
Spread the housing only enough to remove the
differential. This should only require about 0.12
mm (0.005 inch). Measure the amount the hous-
ing is spread with the dial indicator.
CAUTION: Do not spread the housing any more
than 0.38 mm (0.015 inch). Overspreading may
distort or damage the housing.
Remove the dial indicator and differential bear-
ing caps. Tag the caps for assembly reference.
Remove the differential assembly. If the dif-
ferential is still a fairly snug fit, use a pry bar
to ease the differential out of the bearing
saddles.
Remove the spreader tool and clamps im-
mediately after removing the differential. This
is important in avoiding the possibility of the
housing taking a set.
Remove the pinion gear, bearings and seal if
they are to be serviced.
Differential Installation
Install the pinion gear, bearings and seal if re-
moved. Adjust pinion gear depth if required.
Refer to the procedure outlined in the overhaul
sections.
Spread the axle housing no more than 0.38 mm
(0.015 inch) with tool J 24385-01
Start the differential bearing cups in the axle
housing bearing saddles.
Tap the outer edges of the differential bearing
cups with a rawhide mallet to seat them in the
axle housing.
Remove the axle housing spreader tool.
Install the differential bearing caps. Tighten the
cap bolts to 77 l\hm (57 ft-lbs) torque.
Check and adjust ring gear backlash if
necessary.
NOTE: If the pinion gear, bearings or seal were
serviced, adjust pinion preload as outlined in
the Differential Overhaul section or in the Pinion
Seal Replacement procedure.
Align and connect the propeller shaft. Tighten
the U-joint clamp bolts to 19 N»m (170 in-lbs)
torque.
Install the axle housing cover. Tighten the cover
bolts to 19 N«m (170 in-lbs) torque.
Fill the axle with 1.2 liters (2.5 pints) of J E E P
axle lubricant or an equivalent SAE 75W-90,
API Grade GL 5 gear lubricant.
Install the brake drums and wheels. Tighten the
wheel nuts to 102 N»m (75 ft-lbs) torque.
Lower the vehicle.
H-12