Differential Carrier: Testing and Inspection

The differential case assemblies and drive pinion should be inspected before they are removed from the carrier casting. These inspections can locate the condition and determine the resolution needed.
1. Wipe clean lubricant from internal components, then visually inspect components for wear and/or damage.
2. Rotate gears and check if there is any roughness which would indicate worn and/or damaged bearings or gears.
3. Check ring gear teeth for signs of scoring, abnormal wear or nicks/chips.
4. Install a suitable dial indicator and check ring gear backlash and ring gear backface runout.
5. Do not check for gear tooth contact pattern. A contact pattern is not an acceptable guide to check for noise. Proper gear set assembly must be checked using specified tools.