How to remove a 404 diff

How to remove a 404 diff

NB this axle is upside down - I am running a mid engine so have flipped the axles.

I posted this link on http://www.pirate4x4.com/ and there was some comment about alternative proceedures that are a lot easier, which is damn good news as I had a real nasty time.

Here are a couple of pictures show the angle a Unimog 404 diff has to be swivel to in order to get it in/out of the casing.

The locker has to be locked - I used a cable tie.

You must have a very good reason to remove the diff - welding the axle case is not a good enough reason IMHO.

It took me a couple of hours to get it out, and three to get it back in.

The alignment has to perfect. If its not, no amount of straps and clamps will help it in.

I couldn't replace the diff without clearancing the axle housing by up-to 5mm in places !!

I thought the diff case might have distorted because of the welding, but once in the diff bolted up perfectly.