Houpty

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/66387/audi_differential_004.jpg"></center><p>I can't get the rear cover plate (shown in picture)off the differential housing. I took the bolts out but can't release it. The Bentley says to turn slightly while removing but I have had no luck with that. I removed the front cover plate quite easily and was hoping to knock the plate off from the inside but I can't get the ring gear out because I can't get the bearings off. I included a link that shows the bearing. The only puller I could get to fit was a $6 China tool that broke from the force. I could try to take apart the ring gear but I don't think that would help and might just make things worst.

Has anyone taken this plate off before? Did the dealership use epoxy of something when they rebuilt the tranny 100,000 miles ago? It would help if I knew what the back side of the plate looked like so I would know the best approach.

Dave
1990 80<ul><li><a href="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/66387/audi_differential_003.jpg">http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/66387/audi_differential_003.jpg</a</li></ul>

RxFX101

any snap rings holding the bearings on?

Houpty

<center><img src="http://www.auto2.ru/epc/etka/B071/053000.png"></center><p>
It is #24.

What sealant have people used on the front and rear cover plate? I know Tipton says he rebuilt his differential.

Houpty

Nope they are just pressed on. but the puller needs to fit in that 8 cm diameter hole

MikTip

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/6607/gbbearingtool.jpg"></center><p>A few special tools are often needed....

Houpty

Yes I did remove it and no special tools were required. I used some large arc joint pliers.

RxFX101

try using a slide hammer?

Houpty

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/66387/imgp0238.jpg"></center><p>I would say Autozone has more tools but they did not have this one in stock yesterday if the jaws would have even fit.

I had to remove the front pinion bearing also in order for the differential to come out of the differential housing and it just barely fit out on the 3rd attempt. Sunday is a holy day.

I used a punch and ball peen hammer to get the rear cover plate off. It was not glue it is just an interference fit and not easily removed from the outside.

The cage to the rear pinion bearing had torn apart too for some reason, so that needs replacing.

I am going to need a parts washer because this is going to take a lot of cleaning. My work had 2 outside of unknown condition they said I could have if they are still there. There was a lot of metal shavings in the differential housing. MAKE SURE YOU CHECK YOUR GEAR OIL LEVEL! I went about 3 or 4 years since I took over service solely and who knows when the last time the dealer checked it. I remember adding 1/2 to 3/4 of a quart.