I was originally going to put the Avalanche Differential
protectors on, when Warn released their skids. Now I have never
managed to hit the top of my differential on anything, but I have hit
almost every spot on the bottom of a differential. I really wanted
a full face skid and not just protection for the lip and ring gear.
The fact that the Warn skids were half the price didn't hurt.
These skids provide a full face protection, reinforcement to the lower
lip of the cover, and give an angle to ride up and over obstacles.
If you are wondering how this protects the differential cover from pealing
back when you catch a rock it is easy. The Warn skid sandwiches
the diff cover between it's mounting plate and the housing. My differential
covers did not hand down beyond the edge of the housing so it would already
be hard for a rock to damage it. I believe that these will take
a good hit before any damage is done to the differential cover.
Tools
Needed:
1/2" Socket
3/16" Allen Wrench
Torque Wrench
Installation:
1. Carefully remove the 5 bolts from bottom of the differential with
a 1/2" socket.
2. Now bolt the cover on with the supplied 3/16" Allen head screws.
3. As you can see the clearance is good in the front and in the back.
These are pictures from before the lift.
UPDATE: I did eventually develop a small leak from both the front and rear.
The front has been fixed already, and the rear will be when I get
the oil changed in it.
If
you break your seal, you will need to remove the entire cover and
reseal it. Apply a 1/4 in. bead of red Mopar Silicone Rubber
Sealant or equivalent to the housing cover. You will need to
refill with 70W-140 Synthetic oil and possibly the friction modifier.
I know the dealership put the modifier in the front axle after they
replaced my axle seal.
CAUTION: If housing cover is not installed within 3 to 5 minutes, the cover
must be cleaned and new RTV applied or adhesion quality will
be compromised.
