How do I change my final drive?
Changing the final drive on a vehicle can be a complex process and may require specialized tools and expertise. It’s important to note that changing the final drive can affect the performance and handling of your machine, so it’s crucial to ensure that the new final drive is compatible with your machine and meets your needs.
Important! Do not replace your final drive unless you understand the reason for failure of previous final drive.
Here are some general steps for changing a final drive:
- Raise the Machine: Use a jack to raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands.
- Remove the old final drive: Locate the old final drive, which is typically located on the rear axle, and remove any bolts, clips or other fasteners that secure it in place. You may need to use a socket wrench or other specialized tools to remove the old final drive.
Things you must check before you install your new final drive:
- Ensure the final drive is free from any damage which may have occurred during transit
- Ensure the final drive is completely clean and free of external contaminants.
- Ensure the final drives connection ports are adequately blocked with plugs.
- Select a clean and dry environment, in order to prevent damage to critical components.
- To maintain warranty, change hydraulic filters and hydraulic oil, so you ensure that you do not fill contaminated oil through your new final drive.
- Check oil level before first use.
- Install the new final drive: Carefully align the new final drive with the axle and secure it in place using the same fasteners as the old final drive. Make sure the new final drive is properly torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Refill the differential fluid: Once the new final drive is installed, refill the differential fluid to the appropriate level.
- Test the Machine: Lower the vehicle and take it for a test drive to ensure that the new final drive is functioning properly and that there are no unusual noises or vibrations.
Tip! Lift up your machine and put the throttle to idle for 5 minutes while engage the final drive in one direction, then you make sure you have clean oil inside the system.
You are now ready to install your new final drive!
It’s important to note that changing the final drive is a complex process and should only be attempted by experienced mechanics or individuals with advanced automotive knowledge. If you are not confident in your ability to perform this task, it’s best to take your machine to a professional mechanic for assistance.
If you’re in need of a hydraulic spare part, for example a final drive, feel free to browse our site or simply just fill out the form to contact us or write us an email at info@mecatra.com