Differential Help
 

1984 318i 5spd.

I was putting in new rear springs and when I was unbolting the rear drive axle I noticed the drivers side half shaft (part number 5)was pulling out of the rear diff! I noticed a lot of greasy oily dirt surrounding the input area so it's been leaking oil for a while. But what part on this diagram holds the half shaft into the diff? Looking at it I can't figure it out. I assume whatever part it is is broken or installed wrong.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1234916103.jpg

I believe I have the lower diagram set up. It's separating between part number 6 and 8 and easily pulls right out. This can't be right? I'm afraid it will pull apart when I'm on the freeway or cornering hard. Thanks.

There is nothing holding these pieces in place; they just snap in. Once the half shafts are installed, they make sure that piece #5 stays put.

As far as the leak from the differential is concerned, you can take care of that by replacing the seal, #7 and the o-ring, #11.

Be sure to do both left and right sides while you are there.

Is this a noticeabe snap? Should I tap into place with a rubber mallet so it holds without sliding out? The seals look pretty easy to replace. Thanks for the reply.

Duane

The best that I can describe this, it is like a snap-ring; it just takes a good push or shove and it slides right into place.

OK Thanks for the info Yurick.