I have the IRS out and I have 2 simple questions:
1) with the 2 output shafts disconnected, should you not be able to freely turn the pinion shaft? Mine goes about 3 complete revolutions, and then comes to a stop, in either direction. What am I missing? I would think the pinion shaft should turn forever, just as if the engine were delivering power to it.
2) The top of the breather cap is a plastic cap. Does it just pull off or am I going to ruin it if I do that? Tried to screw it off, but it just goes round and round!
There, as stated, 2 easy questions! Appreciate the feedback and comments.
Regards,
Wayne

 

As regards Q1, it doesn't sound right to me. Even an LSD diff should take turning of the pinion shaft. Was the car running OK before you dropped the subframe ?


I once had a disaster with a diff when the Pinion Mateshaft Locking Pin worked its way loose and wrecked the diff whilst I was going along at about 50 mph.


Best to have a look inside, IMHO

 

I've had this happen to me....Has this diff sat unused for a long time?

In my case the diff sat...a thin layer or moisture collected and created a crusty rust spot.

So as stated...open'er up and have a look.

 

Thank you for the responses. To answer your questions, the car was not sitting for any long period before I dropped the IRS.....perhaps a month or two. I drove the car home after buying it in the fall, and took it out for a few drives in late fall. It then went into storage, so I am perplexed. I dropped the oil out prior to dropping the IRS; this should have no impact on turning the pinion shaft by hand, right? Looks like another activity on the list i.e. "open'er up and have a look"!