Differential Question

[hondo100]

How can I tell if the differentials are ok? I pulled them off a running/driving jeep, but they don't seem "right"
When I spin the input yoke, the two yokes that drive the wheels turn, but if I hold either one of them they stop turning , while I can still spin the input yoke.

Is this normal? Is there a simple method to test them?

Thanks,

Ralph

[rickf]

If you hold one the other should turn faster, this is how an open differential works If you hold one and turn the input and the other side does not turn then you have problems, you should be feeling some sort of grinding or crunching. It is pretty hard to tell if a differential is good or bad other than to feel for free play in the ring and pinion. Hold both axles and turn the input just a hair back and forth and feel for how much play is there. Should be a little but not a lot. Hint on holding both, flop it on its side so it is laying on on axle and then you only have to hold one. You can actually feel the play without holding the axles once you know what you are feeling for. Other than that just feel for rough bearings. Figure you are going to have to replace the seals, these all leak.

[Barlow L]

Here is a very cool video made in 1937 that explains the differential. it will show you the answers to your question.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYAw79386WI

Lee

[rickf]

Neat video, I especially like the beginning with the motorcycle drill teams. I remember watching them. You don't see that stuff anymore.

[hondo100]

Is there anyway to screw a differential up by just replacing the seals? Do the yokes need to go back on in any certain order?

Ralph

[rickf]

The driveshaft yokes are the same and the axle shaft yokes are the same so they go on either position. Just be careful you do not gouge the housing taking out the old seals, they are pretty deep seals so they can be a bear to get out. Most new seal kits come with wear sleeves, if you get them you have to put them on the yokes since the seals are sized to fit them and will leak if you do not use them. It is all basically common sense, if it feels or looks wrong then it probably is, stop and think about it or ask here.

[hondo100]

Thanks