Front Differential Assembly: Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Using the ST, screw-in the retainer until resistance is felt.
NOTE: RH side should be screwed-in more than LH side.

ST 18658AA020 WRENCH COMPL RETAINER

Fig 1: Screwing Differential Side Retainer Using ST
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the remaining liquid gasket from the mating surface completely.
Using the ST, install the drive pinion assembly to converter case.
ST 18270KA020 SOCKET (E20)

NOTE: Do not confuse the three different-length bolts when installing.

Tightening torque:

43 N.m (4.4 kgf-m, 31.7 ft-lb)

Fig 2: Identifying Converter Case Bolts Tightening Sequence
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Rotate the drive pinion shaft ten times or more using ST 1 and ST2.
ST1 18667AA010 HOLDER

ST2 499787700 WRENCH

Fig 3: Rotating Drive Pinion Shaft Using ST1 And ST2
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
While rotating the pinion shaft, tighten the retainer LH and loosen the retainer RH until the shaft can't be turned anymore. The backlash is "zero" when the pinion shaft comes to the point where it doesn't rotate.
After the "zero" state is established, loosen the retainer LH by 3 notches and secure it with the lock plate. Loosen the retainer RH and retighten until it stops. Rotate the drive pinion 2 or 3 times. Tighten the retainer RH further 1-3/4 notches. This sets the preload. Finally, secure the retainer with its lock plate.

Fig 4: Identifying Lock Plate
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Turning the retainer by every one tooth changes the backlash approx. 0.05 mm (0.0020 in).

Fig 5: Checking Retainer Tooth Backlash
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Insert the two SUBARU genuine axle shafts into differential case.
Part No. 38415AA070 Axle shaft
Wrap the drive shaft pinion shaft with cloth and pinch with vise pliers. Install the installation bolt into the bolt hole of secondary pulley and secure the bolt and vise pliers using a band or wire.
Make sure the drive pinion shaft does not move.

Fig 6: Installing Installation Bolt Into Bolt Hole Of Secondary Pulley
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Check the backlash is within specification using ST1, ST2 and ST3.
ST1 498255400 PLATE

ST2 498247001 MAGNET BASE

ST3 498247100 DIAL GAUGE

Backlash:

0.13 - 0.18 mm (0.005 - 0.007 in)

Fig 7: Checking Drive Pinion Shaft Backlash Using ST1, ST2 And ST3
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Adjust the teeth contact of the front differential and drive shaft. < Ref. to ADJUSTMENT , Drive Pinion Shaft Assembly. >