Differential Case

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install side gears, pinion mate gears and thrust washers into differential case.

Fig 1: Installing Side Gears, Pinion Mate Gears And Thrust Washers
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Fit pinion mate shaft to differential case so that it meets lock pin holes.
Adjust backlash between side gear and pinion mate gear by selecting side gear thrust washer.
Refer to SDS, SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS (SDS) .

Backlash between side gear and pinion mate gear (Clearance between side gear thrust washer and differential case):

Less than 0.15 mm (0.0059 in)

Fig 2: Adjusting Backlash Between Side Gear And Pinion Mate Gear
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Install pinion mate shaft lock pin with a punch.
Make sure lock pin is flush with case.

Fig 3: Installing Pinion Mate Shaft Lock Pin With Punch
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Apply gear oil to gear tooth surfaces and thrust surfaces and check to see they turn properly.

Fig 4: Applying Gear Oil To Gear Tooth Surfaces And Thrust Surfaces
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Install differential case assembly on ring gear.
Apply genuine medium strength thread locking sealant or equivalent. Refer to RECOMMENDED CHEMICAL PRODUCTS AND SEALANTS . After tightening, tighten by rotating 34 to 39 degrease.
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern, lightly tapping bolt head with a hammer.

Fig 5: Applying Genuine Medium Strength Thread Locking Sealant Or Equivalent
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Press-fit side bearing inner cones on differential case with Tool.
Tool number:

A KV38100300 (J25523)

B ST33061000 (J8107-2)

Fig 6: Pressing-Fit Side Bearing Inner Cones On Differential Case With Tool
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.