Differential re-seal

[billpatterson]

Hi
I am working on refurbishing the rear subframe, suspension and drive parts. The differential has no apparent leaks however the interior of each drive axle flange and the mating faces of the CV joints were a bit 'oily'. The oil had that acrid gear oil smell.

Is this common?

Is it common to use thread sealant on the drive flange retaining bolts?

THX

Bill

 

[billpatterson]

Hi there

I think I know the answer, Forum members, BUT would like some feedback please.

I am cleaning up the diff and prepping for new seals and paint. When cleaning, I turned one of the drive flanges its movement could be described as shuttering (easy, stiff, easy, stiff, easy, ...). I was concerned so I took some video. When thinking about it more, I turned both drive flanges at the same time and they turned smooooooth. So, was the shuttering that happened when turning only one drive flange the limited slip?

Regards,
Bill

 

[HB Chris]

Do you have limited slip? Is there a painted or stamped S on passenger side below drive flange where ratio is also stamped?

 

[billpatterson]

Do you have limited slip? Is there a painted or stamped S on passenger side below drive flange where ratio is also stamped?

Hi Chris,

This is what is stamped below the drive flange on the passenger side,

(a sideways 2)
12
11 40

Thanks!

Bill

 

[HB Chris]

3.64 differential, standard in 3.0 Bavs. Most likely an open diff however.

 

[Mot27cars]

I believe it’s 3.64 open

 

[billpatterson]

3.64 differential, standard in 3.0 Bavs. Most likely an open diff however.

Thx Chris!
Is that diff pretty usual?
How about the noise when turning one drive flange? (Note-no noise and its smooth when turning both flanges)

Regards

 

[HB Chris]

Not sure regarding noise but the 3.64 came in all 3.0 e9 and e3 in the US.

 

[billpatterson]

Not sure regarding noise but the 3.64 came in all 3.0 e9 and e3 in the US.

Thx!
The diff did not have very much oil in it. I suspect its a bit 'dry' and may need a rinse out. I will run ATF in it for a few rips around the block then drain and fill with 80-90 gear oil likely Redline MTL 75W80 GL4.

Regards,
Bill

 

[billpatterson]

HI Forum!

Replacing the seals on the differential and reinstalling must be one of the most straight forward jobs there is on these cars. That said...most jobs on the E3 and 2002 are straight forward, IMHO. The most challenging aspect always seem to be the cleaning and prepping for each task. Thank you for the feedback!!

Regards
Bill