We went to go replace the bearings on the driver side dif of a 2002 tahoe and this little clip on the left wouldn't go back down.

We didn't replace the bearing because we couldn't get it out, and now the "sprocket" spins either direction without tightening up.

Any ideas? How much of a hole have we dug ourselves into?

 

Looks to me like that tab is a lock ring/retainer. I am not up on this piece of mechanical that you have. Those needle bearings look fine, why did you think that bearing needed replaced? I am thinking that retainer is also a spacer to hold the bearing within tolerance. With that, if the bearing has been moved, you probably will need a build spec or tolerance spec with an inside mic to reset.

 

It's definitely a lock tab. We were going to replace the bearing and seal because there was play in the axel on that side and it was slightly leaking also a slight vibration on the highway. (We were told there should be no play).

The funny thing now is, even with that piece sort of broken, it seems like the problem is completely gone, drive smooth on the highway now. BUT I'm planning on purchasing the vehicle from him and using it strictly as a tow vehicle (about 5000kms per year). So I want to make sure the problem is dealt with before I start my camping season.

 

I'd suggest replace the locking tab. Seal, also. Seal should be a garlock, simple pop out, and pop in.

 

Seal was replaced. The locking tab is what I'm scratching my head at, it's like we have to come through the other side to replace it...

 

Anyone??.?

 

This is a picture of the tool to remove the bearing adjuster nut. Turn the ring counter clockwise to remove the nut.

I hope that you make out ok with the repair.

 

Spinning the part was not the problem, the issue was it wouldn't stop spinning either direction and was not tightening or loosening up no matter how much we spun it.

If I can't find a solution I'm going to end up replacing the front dif... As of now it's still running smoothly, I hope it stays that way.

 

To remove the nut, you should turn it counter clockwise. It should come out that way. You may want to apply some pressure to the side of the nut while turning it, to provide something to push against.

You are starting to get to the point where it would be a lot easier working on the dif on a bench.

Hopefully you can get it out.