Parts needed for differential replacement

[Benzito]

I'm thinking my 3.91 is slowly but surely going kaput - that incessant differential whine just won't go away.

Anyway, assuming I want to stick with the 3.91 or 3.64, this probably isn't an 'unbolt old and bolt on replacement" type process, is it? I wasn't going to do it, but my cousin has auto repair experience and I figure he can do it for me for free. But I'd have to source all the parts. Besides the new differential and perhaps new gaskets and seals, what all else would I need?

Thanks.

Mike (in Portland)

[PSloan]

Have you tried just switching the fluid?

[Benzito]

Yeah. It had the metal scraping noise when I bought it. I topped off the fluid and it helped a little bit (a lot less noise <20 mph), but the noise is still there enough to make me nervous. I can't really hear it with the stereo on at a reasonable volume, but the fact that I know it's there . . . or am I worried over nothing?

[robspeed]

if you are doing a straight diff swap, then yes, its just a bolt and unbolt operation. if not (going to an e21 LSD), then get a spacer kit from ireland or varco or dave lumbra (or somebody!)

a tip is in how to replace the diff hanger bushings: remove the rubber with a bigass screwdriver, channellocks, etc.,,, then SAW through the outer ring of the bushing insert with a hacksaw blade, etc. its a steel ring that presses into the hanger itself. anyways, the thickness of the saw cut will allow you to collapse the ring slightly and it will fall out onto the floor. use the old ring to push the new bushing into place with your bench vice. good luck and have fun!!

depending on the condition of your existing parts, you might want to replace the guibo, center bearing, related bolts/hardware, the diff hanger bushings, diff cover gasket, possibly new CV boots, etc. did i mention the having fun part?!

[SteveJ]

Yeah,

Rob mentioned the "having fun" part. Make sure to wear safety goggles while working under the car. All that crap loves to fall into your eyes at the worst time.