Pulling out a differential Safely

[fiftysixcaddy]

In order to strip the underside of the body under the differential I need to remove, or at least lower the differential. Is there a procedure? I have removed the E-Brake cables and brrake lines. Should I pull the shakles first?

[gary griffin]

Hi Dan,

    I am not familiar with your specific model but I want to question why you would remove the shackles?

    In most cars you can remove the differential without removing the whole rear end.

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

I think he wants to remove the whole rear end, and not just the "Pumpkin".

Removing the Shackles, and then lowering each spring away from the housing will give you better control of the heavy diff.

Lower the housing as far as you can go but still being able to get at the spring to housing "U" Bolts, and take time when undoing these.

Once the last one is undone, the diff will tend to try and fall forward, onto its' nose.

Bruce.

[Glen]

On a safety note: How is your car supported; on jack stands; four post lift; two post lift?  If it is on a two post lift be very careful.  Removing a heavy part such as a rear end can cause the car to fall off the lift.  With a two post lift you would need to put additional supports under the front end to support the weight of the engine. 

Also keep this in mind with any other lift.  Generally this is not a problem with jack stands or the four post lift, but keep the balance of the car in mind as you remove the rear end.   

[fiftysixcaddy]

Thanks for the tips, I didn't think about the nosing dowm in front. Moving it was the task I was most concerned about. I was thnking of making two dollies, one for each side, then lower it down but now I have rethink the tipping issue.

[fiftysixcaddy]

Got it out and no blood!