Removing Differential Questions

[304065]

On my list of winter to-dos for the race car is the following:

Inspect and rebuild ZF Limited Slip Differential in 911/01 gearbox

Here are some simple questions:

1) Can the differential be removed from the car without removing the engine and transaxle?

2) How would one do this, simply remove the CV axles, lock the output flange in position, remove the flange bolts and pull off the side cover?

3) Can the ZF-type differential be rebuilt without removing the bearings?

4) If the bearings are removed, can they be replaced with the same shims underneath eliminating the need to reset the preload or pattern the ring gear again?

Sorry for the novice questions. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[cstreit]

1) Can the differential be removed from the car without removing the engine and transaxle?

YES.

2) How would one do this, simply remove the CV axles, lock the output flange in position, remove the flange bolts and pull off the side cover?

Remove Axles. Remove output flange. Remove side cover and be prepared to catch that lump when it falls out! Watch the bearings they come apart easy. (I had to pick up all 25 from the floor 3 times once.

3) Can the ZF-type differential be rebuilt without removing the bearings?

Yes.

4) If the bearings are removed, can they be replaced with the same shims underneath eliminating the need to reset the preload or pattern the ring gear again?

Theoretically yes. Just don't remove them unless necessary.

[304065]

Chris,

Thanks for the clear and timely reply.

One thing scares me: if I have the car (safely) supported on multiple jack stands, what should I expect to fall out when the differential is removed? Will the bearings really fall apart and drop balls all over the floor?