Differential

A differential is a compact but heavily loaded assembly of gears and bearings that distributes the drive between the wheels — and is therefore subject to wear. As a specialist in rebuilding Dana rear axles, I am at the service of workshops and private owners who prefer to leave the precise set-up to a specialist.

Mechanically thorough, cosmetically refined — available separately or combined for a complete result

How do you recognise the need for a differential rebuild?

Not every fault can immediately be traced back to the differential. Problems with the rear axle can have many causes and the culprit is not always immediately clear. Nevertheless, this crucial component often shows a number of recognisable symptoms when worn. By recognising these signs in time, you can act quickly and prevent further damage. If you recognise one or more of the following points, it is advisable to have the differential assessed.

Humming or whining noise while driving

Do you hear a persistent humming or whining noise that increases with road speed? This is often a sign of worn bearings or gears in the differential.

Play in the propshaft

Do you notice a slight jolt or "clunk" when you accelerate or lift off? Excessive play in the rear axle indicates wear on the gears or bearings inside the differential.

Vibration felt in the floor, tunnel or seat

Do you feel unusual vibration that increases at higher speeds? Worn or damaged gears and bearings in the differential can cause this vibration.

Visible oil leak under the vehicle

Do you see dark oil stains under the middle or rear of your vehicle? Leaking gaskets or seals on the differential must be replaced in good time to prevent serious damage.

Oil with a burnt smell or metal particles

Does the differential oil smell burnt at an oil change? Or are there also visible metal particles in the oil? This indicates overheating or metal wear inside, making a rebuild necessary.

Unusual handling when cornering

Does the vehicle unexpectedly pull to one side or behave unpredictably in corners? A poorly functioning differential can disturb the distribution of power between the wheels.

Do you recognise one or more of the signs above? Then that is good reason to have the differential assessed. However, that does not automatically mean a full rebuild is needed: sometimes a differential simply needs an oil change. That is why, by appointment, I always start with a thorough diagnosis to establish exactly what your differential needs — no unnecessary work, no unnecessary costs.

Mechanical rebuild

The basis of every rebuild is the technical condition of the component. I replace wear parts according to factory specifications, use original or equivalent rebuild parts wherever possible, and set everything up precisely.

Included as standard with every rebuild:

  • All oil seals and gaskets
  • Crown wheel bearings and pinion bearings
  • Setting of backlash and preload

Optional, depending on wear or preference:

  • Crown wheel and pinion (gear set)
  • Spider gears and shafts
  • Limited-slip differential components, where applicable

Always included on delivery:

  • New differential oil
  • Advice on the running-in period and support with fitting and maintenance

Once your differential arrives with me, the rebuild process starts as soon as possible:

View the process

 

  • Inspection and function check — All mechanical components are checked for operation and assessed for signs of excessive wear.
  • Cleaning — All parts are thoroughly cleaned, completely removing dirt and metal wear particles from the oil.
  • Assembly — Reassembly takes place with new oil seals and gaskets. By agreement or where necessary, I also replace other components, such as bearings, crown wheel and pinion.
  • Tuning and calibration — Backlash and preload are set precisely on the basis of the contact pattern between crown wheel and pinion, so that the differential runs quietly and smoothly.

Cosmetic refurbishment

Only available in combination with a mechanical rebuild.

A technically perfect differential also works perfectly well with a dull or weathered casing — cosmetic refurbishment is therefore not a necessity, but a choice. For those who value an authentic or showroom-worthy look under the car, it does make a real difference. My cosmetic refurbishment brings the appearance of the casing back up to the level of the mechanics. As standard, my cosmetic refurbishment consists of blasting, with the option of adding a sprayed colour finish afterwards.

Step 1: Blasting

I blast the differential casing with fine media; this process removes old paint, corrosion and oxidation right down to the bare aluminium or cast iron. In addition, any defects, such as porosity, cracks or damage, come to light immediately during this process, before the mechanical rebuild is completed.

Step 2: Painting

On request, I paint the differential casing in the colour of your choice. The coating is custom-made and therefore available in almost any colour. This coating is fully resistant to oil and heat — suitable for real use, not just for the display cabinet.

With my extensive experience in rebuilding differentials and Dana rear axles, I am at the service of workshops, dealers and private owners alike. Whether you are looking for a specialist to work with or are an enthusiast: I am happy to advise you. View my portfolio for an overview of previous projects.

Get in touch

Opening hours

I work by appointment only. Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a time.

Postal address

Kemphaan 33

8532 AS Lemmer, Friesland, the Netherlands

contact details

contact@vanvliet-klassiekers.nl

+31 6 81 72 31 78