Table of Contents
Installing an ARB differential lock on your Dana 44 can significantly enhance your vehicle’s off-road capabilities. This step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the installation process, ensuring you have the right tools and information for a successful upgrade.
Tools and Materials Needed
- ARB differential lock kit
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Ratchet
- Shop manual for Dana 44
- Grease
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Before you begin, gather all necessary tools and materials. Ensure you have a clean workspace and wear safety gear to protect yourself during the installation process.
Preparation Steps
Follow these preparation steps before diving into the installation:
- Jack up your vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the rear wheels to access the differential.
- Drain the differential fluid into a suitable container.
- Remove the differential cover bolts using a socket wrench.
Once the differential cover is removed, clean the mating surfaces thoroughly to ensure a proper seal when reassembling.
Removing the Existing Differential
To install the ARB differential lock, you must first remove the existing differential. Follow these steps:
- Remove the axle shafts by unscrewing the retaining bolts.
- Carefully pull the axle shafts out from the differential housing.
- Remove the ring gear bolts and take out the existing differential.
Inspect the differential housing for any damage or debris that could affect the new installation.
Installing the ARB Differential Lock
Now that the old differential is removed, it’s time to install the ARB differential lock:
- Grease the new ARB differential lock components as per the instructions.
- Place the new differential lock into the housing, ensuring it sits correctly.
- Attach the ring gear to the new differential lock using the provided bolts.
- Torque the ring gear bolts to the specifications provided in the shop manual.
Double-check that everything is aligned correctly before proceeding to the next step.
Reinstalling the Axle Shafts
With the ARB differential lock in place, you can now reinstall the axle shafts:
- Carefully slide the axle shafts back into the differential housing.
- Secure the axle shafts with the retaining bolts, ensuring they are properly tightened.
- Check for any play in the axle shafts to ensure a snug fit.
Make sure everything is aligned and secure before moving on.
Reassembling the Differential
After the axle shafts are in place, it’s time to reassemble the differential:
- Clean the differential cover and apply a new gasket or sealant.
- Reattach the differential cover using the original bolts.
- Torque the differential cover bolts to the specifications in the shop manual.
Ensure that the differential cover is secure and free of leaks.
Filling the Differential with Fluid
Now that the differential is reassembled, it’s time to fill it with fluid:
- Locate the fill plug on the differential.
- Using a fluid pump, fill the differential with the recommended fluid until it reaches the fill hole.
- Replace the fill plug and ensure it is tight.
Check for any leaks around the differential cover and fill plug after filling.
Final Checks and Testing
Before taking your vehicle out for a test drive, perform these final checks:
- Inspect all bolts and fittings to ensure they are tight.
- Check the differential cover for leaks.
- Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and replace the rear wheels.
After completing these checks, you are ready to test your new ARB differential lock. Take your vehicle for a short drive and test the functionality of the lock to ensure everything is working correctly.
Conclusion
Installing an ARB differential lock on your Dana 44 can greatly improve your off-road experience. By following this step-by-step tutorial, you can ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely. Happy off-roading!