Differential Side Gear Clearance
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Assemble the differential parts if they are disassembled. Refer to , "DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY "
- Place differential case straight up so that side gear to be measured comes upward.
- Using feeler gauge, measure the clearance between side gear back and differential case at 3 different points, while rotating side gear. Average the 3 readings, and then measure the clearance. (Measure the clearance of the other side as well.)
Side gear back clearance specification: 0.1 mm (0.004 in) or less.
(Each gear should rotate smoothly without excessive resistance during differential motion.)
CAUTION: To prevent side gear from tilting, insert feeler gauges with the same thickness from both sides. - If the back clearance is outside the specification, use a thicker/ thinner side gear thrust washer to adjust. Refer to
, "SIDE GEAR THRUST WASHER "
When the back clearance is greater than specification: Use a thicker thrust washer.
When the back clearance is less than specification: Use a thinner thrust washer.
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
CAUTION: Select a side gear thrust washer for right and left individually.