D DRIVELINE/AXLE

SECTION
FRONT FINAL DRIVE
FFD B

FFD

E
CONTENTS
PRECAUTIONS .......................................................... 2 CARRIER COVER .................................................... 12 F
Precautions for Servicing Front Final Drive .............. 2 Removal and Installation ........................................ 12
PREPARATION ........................................................... 3 REMOVAL ........................................................... 12
Special Service Tools ............................................... 3 INSTALLATION ................................................... 12 G
Commercial Service Tools ........................................ 5 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY .......................... 13
NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) Removal and Installation ........................................ 13
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................ 6 REMOVAL ........................................................... 13
H
NVH Troubleshooting Chart ..................................... 6 INSTALLATION ................................................... 14
DESCRIPTION ............................................................ 7 Disassembly and Assembly .................................... 15
Cross-Sectional View ............................................... 7 COMPONENTS ................................................... 15
DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL ........................................ 8 ASSEMBLY INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT... 16 I
Changing Differential Gear Oil ................................. 8 DISASSEMBLY ................................................... 18
DRAINING ............................................................. 8 INSPECTION AFTER DISASSEMBLY ................ 23
FILLING ................................................................. 8 ADJUSTING AND SELECTING WASHERS ....... 24 J
Checking Differential Gear Oil .................................. 8 ASSEMBLY ......................................................... 28
DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL LEAKAGE AND SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS (SDS) ...... 34
LEVEL ................................................................... 8 General Specifications ............................................ 34
K
FRONT OIL SEAL ...................................................... 9 Inspection and Adjustment ..................................... 34
Removal and Installation .......................................... 9 DRIVE GEAR RUNOUT ...................................... 34
REMOVAL ............................................................. 9 SIDE GEAR CLEARANCE .................................. 34
INSTALLATION ................................................... 10 PRELOAD TORQUE ........................................... 34 L
SIDE OIL SEAL .........................................................11 BACKLASH ......................................................... 34
Removal and Installation .........................................11 COMPANION FLANGE RUNOUT ....................... 34
REMOVAL ............................................................11 SELECTIVE PARTS ............................................ 35 M
INSTALLATION ....................................................11

Revision: September 2006 FFD-1 2007 Frontier

 PRECAUTIONS

PRECAUTIONS PFP:00001

Precautions for Servicing Front Final Drive EDS0046C

● Before starting diagnosis of the vehicle, understand the symptoms well. Perform correct and systematic
operations.
● Check for the correct installation status prior to removal or disassembly. When matching marks are
required, be certain they do not interfere with the function of the parts they are applied to.
● Overhaul should be done in a clean work area, a dust proof area is recommended.
● Before disassembly, completely remove sand and mud from the exterior of the unit, preventing them from
entering into the unit during disassembly or assembly.
● Always use shop paper for cleaning the inside of components.
● Avoid using cotton gloves or a shop cloth to prevent the entering of lint.
● Check appearance of the disassembled parts for damage, deformation, and abnormal wear. Replace
them with new ones if necessary.
● Gaskets, seals and O-rings should be replaced any time the unit is disassembled.
● Clean and flush the parts sufficiently and blow them dry.
● Be careful not to damage sliding surfaces and mating surfaces.
● When applying sealant, remove the old sealant from the mating surface; then remove any moisture, oil,
and foreign materials from the application and mating surfaces.
● In principle, tighten nuts or bolts gradually in several steps working diagonally from inside to outside. If a
tightening sequence is specified, observe it.
● During assembly, observe the specified tightening torque.
● Add new differential gear oil, petroleum jelly, or multi-purpose grease, as specified.

Revision: September 2006 FFD-2 2007 Frontier

 PREPARATION

PREPARATION PFP:00002
A
Special Service Tools EDS0046D

The actual shapes of Kent-Moore tools may differ from those of special service tools illustrated here.
Tool number Description
B
(Kent-Moore No.)
Tool name
KV38108300 Removing and installing drive pinion lock nut
(J-44195) C
Flange wrench

FFD

NT771

KV381054S0 Removing front oil seal E

(J-34286)
Puller

ZZA0601D
G
ST30720000 ● Installing front oil seal
(J-25405) ● Installing side oil seal
Drift
a: 77 mm (3.03 in) dia. H
b: 55.5 mm (2.185 in) dia.

ZZA0811D I
ST27863000 ● Installing front oil seal
( — ) ● Installing side oil seal
Drift J
a: 74.5 mm (2.933 in) dia.
b: 62.5 mm (2.461 in) dia.

K
ZZA1003D

ST3127S000 Measuring drive pinion bearing preload torque

(J-25765-A) and total preload torque L
Preload gauge
1: GG91030000
(J-25765)
Torque wrench M
2: HT62940000
( — )
Socket adapter (1/2″)
3: HT62900000 NT124

( — )
Socket adapter (3/8″)
KV10111100 Removing carrier cover
(J-37228)
Seal cutter

S-NT046

Revision: September 2006 FFD-3 2007 Frontier

 PREPARATION

Tool number Description

(Kent-Moore No.)
Tool name
ST3306S001 Removing and installing side bearing inner
( — ) race
Differential side bearing puller set a: 28.5 mm (1.122 in) dia.
1: ST33051001 b: 38 mm (1.50 in) dia.
(J-22888-20)
Puller
2: ST33061000
(J-8107-2)
NT072
Base
ST30031000 Removing drive pinion rear bearing inner race
(J-22912-01)
Replacer

ZZA0700D

KV38100600 Installing side bearing adjusting washer

(J-25267)
Drift

SDIA0429J

ST30613000 Installing drive pinion rear bearing outer race

(J-25742-3) a: 72 mm (2.83 in) dia.
Drift b: 48 mm (1.89 in) dia.

ZZA1000D

ST30611000 Installing drive pinion rear bearing outer race

(J-25742-1) (Use with ST30613000)
Drift bar

S-NT090

KV38100200 Installing drive pinion front bearing outer race

(J-26233) a: 65 mm (2.56 in) dia.
Drift b: 49 mm (1.93 in) dia.

ZZA1143D

ST30901000 Installing drive pinion rear bearing inner race

(J-26010-01) a: 79 mm (3.11 in) dia.
Drift b: 45 mm (1.77 in) dia.
c: 35.2 mm (1.386 in) dia.

ZZA0978D

Revision: September 2006 FFD-4 2007 Frontier

 PREPARATION

Tool number Description

(Kent-Moore No.) A
Tool name
ST33200000 Installing drive pinion front bearing inner race
(J-26082) a: 60 mm (2.36 in) dia. B
Drift b: 44.5 mm (1.752 in) dia.

ZZA1002D

ST33230000 Installing side bearing inner race FFD

(J-35867) a: 51 mm (2.01 in) dia.
Drift b: 41 mm (1.61 in) dia.
c: 28 mm (1.10 in) dia.
E

ZZA1046D

( — ) Adjusting bearing preload and drive pinion F

(J-34309) height
Differential shim selector tool
G

NT134 H
( — ) Selecting drive pinion height adjusting washer
(J-25269-18)
Side bearing disc (2 Req'd)
I

J
NT135

KV10112100 Tightening bolts for drive gear

(BT-8653-A)
Angle wrench K

L
NT014

Commercial Service Tools EDS0046E M

Tool name Description
Power tool Loosening nuts and bolts

PBIC0190E

Revision: September 2006 FFD-5 2007 Frontier

 Symptom
×: Applicable
Reference page

Revision: September 2006

Noise
Possible cause and SUSPECTED PARTS
NVH Troubleshooting Chart

×
Gear tooth rough FFD-16

×
Gear contact improper FFD-17

×
Tooth surfaces worn FFD-16

FFD-6
×
Backlash incorrect FFD-18

Companion flange excessive runout FFD-18

×
Gear oil improper FFD-8

×
×
PROPELLER SHAFT PR-3, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"
×
FRONT AXLE FFD-6, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"
×

FRONT SUSPENSION FSU-4, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"

×

TIRES WT-4, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"

NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) TROUBLESHOOTING

ROAD WHEEL WT-4, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"

×

DRIVE SHAFT FAX-4, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"

NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) TROUBLESHOOTING

BRAKES BR-5, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"

Use the chart below to help you find the cause of the symptom. If necessary, repair or replace these parts.

STEERING PS-5, "NVH Troubleshooting Chart"

PFP:00003

2007 Frontier
EDS0046F
 DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION PFP:00000
A
Cross-Sectional View EDS0046G

FFD

PDIA0695E

1. Differential side shaft 2. Differential side shaft bearing 3. Side gear J

4. Drive gear 5. Pinion mate shaft 6. Differential case
7. Side bearing 8. Pinion mate gear 9. Drive pinion
10. Collapsible spacer 11. Companion flange 12. Drive pinion front bearing K
13. Drive pinion rear bearing 14. Housing spacer

Revision: September 2006 FFD-7 2007 Frontier

 DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL

DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL PFP:KLD30

Changing Differential Gear Oil EDS0046H

DRAINING
1. Stop the engine.
2. Remove the drain plug and gasket from the front final drive
assembly to drain the differential gear oil.
3. Install the drain plug with a new gasket to the front final drive
assembly. Tighten to the specified torque. Refer to FFD-15,
"COMPONENTS" .
CAUTION:
Do not reuse gasket.

LDIA0175E

FILLING
1. Remove the filler plug and gasket from the front final drive
assembly.
2. Fill the front final drive assembly with new differential gear oil
until the level reaches the specified level near the filler plug hole.
Differential gear oil : Refer to MA-11, "Fluids
grade and capacity and Lubricants" .
3. Install the filler plug with a new gasket on it to the front final drive
assembly. Tighten to the specified torque. Refer to FFD-15,
"COMPONENTS" .
CAUTION: LDIA0176E

Do not reuse gasket.

Checking Differential Gear Oil EDS0046I

DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL LEAKAGE AND LEVEL

1. Make sure that differential gear oil is not leaking from the front final drive assembly or around it.
2. Check the differential gear oil level from the filler plug hole as
shown.
CAUTION:
Do not start engine while checking differential gear oil level.
3. Install the filler plug with a new gasket on it to the front final drive
assembly. Tighten to the specified torque. Refer to FFD-15,
"COMPONENTS" .
CAUTION:
Do not reuse gasket.
LDIA0176E

Revision: September 2006 FFD-8 2007 Frontier

 FRONT OIL SEAL

FRONT OIL SEAL PFP:38189

A
Removal and Installation EDS0046J

REMOVAL
1. Remove the drive shafts from the front final drive assembly. Refer to FAX-7, "Removal and Installation" .
B
2. Remove the front propeller shaft from the front final drive assembly. Refer to PR-5, "Removal and Installa-
tion" .
3. Measure the total preload torque. Refer to FFD-16, "Total Preload Torque" .
C
NOTE:
Record the total preload torque measurement.
4. Remove the drive pinion lock nut using Tool. FFD
Tool number : KV38108300 ( — )
5. Put matching marks on the companion flange and drive pinion
using paint. E
CAUTION:
Use paint to make the matching marks. Do not damage the
companion flange or drive pinion. F

BDIA0001E
G
6. Remove the companion flange using suitable tool.
H

LDIA0171E

7. Remove the front oil seal using Tool. K

Tool number : KV381054S0 (J-34286)

L

LDIA0172E

Revision: September 2006 FFD-9 2007 Frontier

 FRONT OIL SEAL

INSTALLATION
1. Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential gear oil to
the circumference of the new front oil seal. Then drive the new
front oil seal in evenly until it becomes flush with the gear carrier
using Tools.
Tool number A: ST30720000 (J-25405)
B: ST27863000 ( — )
CAUTION:
● Do not reuse front oil seal.

● Do not incline the new front oil seal when installing.

● Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential

WDIA0147E

gear oil to the circumference of the new front oil seal.

2. Install the companion flange to the drive pinion while aligning the matching marks.
3. Apply anti-corrosive oil to the threads of the drive pinion and the
seating surface of the new drive pinion lock nut. Then adjust the
drive pinion lock nut tightening torque using Tool A, and check
the total preload torque using Tool B.
Tool number A: KV38108300 ( — )
B: ST3127S000 (J-25765-A)

Total preload torque: Refer to FFD-16, "Total Pre-

load Torque" .
● The total preload torque should be within the total preload
torque specification. When not replacing the collapsible
spacer, it should also be equal to the measurement taken dur-
ing removal plus an additional 0.56 N·m (0.06 Kg-m, 5 in-lb).
● If the total preload torque is low, tighten the drive pinion lock
nut in 6.8 N·m (0.69 Kg-m, 5ft-lb) increments until the total
preload torque is met.
CAUTION:
● Do not reuse drive pinion lock nut.

● Apply anti-corrosive oil to the threads of the drive pinion

and the seating surface of the new drive pinion lock nut.
● Adjust the drive pinion lock nut tightening torque to the WDIA0381E

lower limit first. Do not exceed the drive pinion lock nut
specified torque. Refer to FFD-15, "COMPONENTS" .
● Do not loosen drive pinion lock nut to adjust the total preload torque. If the drive pinion lock nut
torque or the total preload torque exceeds the specifications, replace the collapsible spacer and
tighten it again to adjust. Refer to FFD-15, "Disassembly and Assembly" .
● After adjustment, rotate drive pinion back and forth 2 to 3 times to check for unusual noise, rota-
tion malfunction, and other malfunctions.
4. Install new side oil seals into the front final drive assembly. Refer to FFD-11, "Removal and Installation" .
5. Installation of the remaining components is in the reverse order of removal.
CAUTION:
Check the differential gear oil level after installation. Refer to FFD-8, "Checking Differential Gear
Oil" .

Revision: September 2006 FFD-10 2007 Frontier

 SIDE OIL SEAL

SIDE OIL SEAL PFP:33142

A
Removal and Installation EDS0046K

REMOVAL
1. Remove the drive shafts from the front final drive assembly. Refer to FFD-13, "Removal and Installation" .
B
2. Remove the side oil seal using suitable tool.
CAUTION:
Do not reuse the side oil seal.
C

FFD

E
LDIA0173E

INSTALLATION
1. Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential gear oil to F
the circumference of the new side oil seal. Then drive the new
side oil seal in evenly until it becomes flush with the gear carrier
using Tools. G
Tool number A: ST30720000 (J-25405)
B: ST27863000 ( — )
H
CAUTION:
● Do not reuse side oil seal.

● Do not incline the new side oil seal when installing.

I
● Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential
PDIA0826E

gear oil to the circumference of the new side oil seal.

2. Installation of the remaining components is in the reverse order of removal. J

CAUTION:
Check the differential gear oil level after installation. Refer to FFD-8, "Checking Differential Gear
Oil" . K

Revision: September 2006 FFD-11 2007 Frontier

 CARRIER COVER

CARRIER COVER PFP:38351

Removal and Installation EDS0046L

REMOVAL
1. Remove the front final drive assembly. Refer to FFD-13, "Removal and Installation" .
2. Remove the carrier cover bolts and separate the carrier cover
from the gear carrier using Tool.
Tool number : KV10111100 (J-37228)
CAUTION:
● Do not damage the mating surface.

● Do not insert flat-bladed screwdriver, this will damage the

mating surface.

PDIA0699E

INSTALLATION
1. Apply a 3 mm (0.12 in) bead of sealant to the mating surface of
the carrier cover as shown.
● Use Genuine Silicone RTV or equivalent. Refer to GI-47,
"Recommended Chemical Products and Sealants" .
CAUTION:
Remove any old sealant adhering to the mating surfaces.
Also remove any moisture, oil, or foreign material adhering
to the application and mating surfaces.
2. Install the carrier cover to the gear carrier. Tighten the bolts to
the specified torque. Refer to FFD-15, "COMPONENTS" .
PDIA0712E
3. Install the front final drive assembly. Refer to FFD-13, "Removal
and Installation" .
CAUTION:
Fill the front final drive assembly with recommended differential gear oil. Refer to FFD-8, "DIFFER-
ENTIAL GEAR OIL" .

Revision: September 2006 FFD-12 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY PFP:38500

A
Removal and Installation EDS0046M

FFD

LDIA0179E

1. Breather hose 2. Front final drive assembly 3. Front crossmember

4. Engine under cover

REMOVAL
1. Drain the differential gear oil. Refer to FFD-8, "DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL" .
2. Remove the drive shafts from the front final drive assembly. Refer to FAX-7, "Removal and Installation" .
3. Remove the front crossmember.
4. Remove the front propeller shaft from the front final drive assembly. Refer to PR-5, "Removal and Installa-
tion" .
5. Disconnect the vent hose from the front final drive assembly.
6. Support the front final drive assembly using a suitable jack.

Revision: September 2006 FFD-13 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

7. Remove the front final drive assembly bolts, then remove the
front final drive assembly.
CAUTION:
Support the front final drive assembly while removing using
a suitable jack.

WDIA0145E

INSTALLATION
Installation is in the reverse order of removal.
● Install new side oil seals into the front final drive assembly. Refer to FFD-11, "Removal and Installation" .
CAUTION:
● Make sure there are no pinched or restricted areas on the breather hose caused by folding or
bending when installing it.
● Fill the front final drive assembly with differential gear oil after installation. Refer to FFD-8, "DIF-
FERENTIAL GEAR OIL" .

Revision: September 2006 FFD-14 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Disassembly and Assembly EDS0046N

COMPONENTS A

FFD

WDIA0265E

1. Drive pinion lock nut 2. Companion flange 3. Front oil seal

4. Drive pinion front bearing 5. Gear carrier 6. Side oil seal
7. Bushing 8. Differential side shaft 9. Differential side shaft bearing
10. Snap ring 11. Snap ring 12. Gasket
13. Drain plug 14. Collapsible spacer 15. Drive pinion rear bearing
16. Drive pinion height adjusting washer 17. Drive pinion 18. Side bearing adjusting washer
19. Side bearing 20. Side gear thrust washer 21. Side gear
22. Pinion mate shaft 23. Lock pin 24. Pinion mate gear
25. Pinion mate thrust washer 26. Drive gear 27. Differential case
28. Housing spacer 29. Side bearing cap 30. Filler plug
31. Carrier cover

Revision: September 2006 FFD-15 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT

● Drain the differential gear oil before inspection and adjustment. Refer to FFD-8, "DIFFERENTIAL GEAR
OIL" .
● Remove and install the carrier cover as necessary for inspection and adjustment. Refer to FFD-12, "CAR-
RIER COVER" .
Total Preload Torque
1. Install the differential side shaft if necessary. Refer to FFD-33, "Differential side shaft" .
CAUTION:
The differential side shaft must be installed in order to measure total preload torque.
2. Rotate the drive pinion back and forth 2 to 3 times to check for unusual noise and rotation malfunction.
3. Rotate the drive pinion at least 20 times to check for smooth operation of the bearings.
4. Measure total preload torque using Tool.
Tool number : ST3127S000 (J-25765-A)

Total preload torque:

1.67 - 2.74 N·m (0.17 - 0.27 kg-m, 15 - 24 in-lb)
NOTE:
Total preload torque = Drive pinion bearing preload torque +
Side bearing preload torque

PDIA0697E

● If the measured value is out of the specification, check and adjust each part. Adjust the drive pinion
bearing preload torque first, then adjust the side bearing preload torque.
If the total preload torque is greater than specification
On drive pinion bearings: Replace the collapsible spacer.
On side bearings: Use thinner side bearing adjusting washers by the same
amount on each side. Refer to FFD-35, "Side Bearing Adjusting
Washer" .

If the total preload torque is less than specification

On drive pinion bearings: Tighten the drive pinion lock nut.
On side bearings: Use thicker side bearing adjusting washers by the same
amount on each side. Refer to FFD-35, "Side Bearing Adjusting
Washer" .
CAUTION:
Select a side bearing adjusting washer for right and left individually.
Drive Gear Runout
1. Fit a dial indicator to the drive gear back face.
2. Rotate the drive gear to measure runout.
Runout limit: 0.08 mm (0.0031 in) or less
● If the runout is outside of the limit, check the condition of the
drive gear assembly. Foreign material may be caught between
the drive gear and differential case, or the differential case or
drive gear may be deformed.
CAUTION:
Replace drive gear and drive pinion as a set.
SPD886

Revision: September 2006 FFD-16 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Tooth Contact
1. Apply red lead to the drive gear. A
NOTE:
Apply red lead to both faces of three to four gears, at four loca-
tions evenly spaced on the drive gear. B

SPD357
FFD

2. Rotate the drive gear back and forth several times. Then check
for correct drive pinion to drive gear tooth contact as shown. E
CAUTION:
Check tooth contact on drive side and reverse side.
F

SDIA0570E

H
● If the tooth contact is improperly adjusted, adjust the drive pin-
ion height (dimension X).
I

K
SDIA0517E

– If the tooth contact is near the face (face contact), or near the L
heel (heel contact), use a thicker drive pinion height adjusting
washer to move drive pinion closer to the drive gear.
Refer to FFD-35, "Drive Pinion Height Adjusting Washer" .
M

PDIA0440E

Revision: September 2006 FFD-17 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

– If the tooth contact is near the flank (flank contact), or near the
toe (toe contact), use a thinner drive pinion height adjusting
washer to move the drive pinion farther from the drive gear.
Refer to FFD-35, "Drive Pinion Height Adjusting Washer" .

PDIA0441E

Backlash
1. Fit a dial indicator to the drive gear face to measure the back-
lash.
Backlash: 0.10 - 0.15 mm (0.0039 - 0.0059 in)
● If the backlash is outside of the specification, change the
thickness of the side bearing adjusting washers.
If the backlash is greater than specification:
Make side bearing adjusting washer thicker on drive
gear back side, and side bearing adjusting washer
thinner on drive gear tooth side by the same amount.
SPD513
Refer to FFD-35, "Side Bearing Adjusting Washer" .
If the backlash is less than specification:
Make side bearing adjusting washer thinner on drive
gear back side, and side bearing adjusting washer
thicker on drive gear tooth side by the same amount.
Refer to FFD-35, "Side Bearing Adjusting Washer" .
CAUTION:
Do not change the total thickness of side bearing adjusting washers as it will change the side
bearing preload torque.
Companion Flange Runout
1. Rotate companion flange and check for runout on the compan-
ion flange face (inner side of the bolt holes) and companion
flange inner side (socket diameter) using suitable tool.
Runout limit: 0.1 mm (0.004 in) or less
2. If the runout is outside the runout limit, follow the procedure
below to adjust.
a. Rotate the companion flange on the drive pinion by 90°, 180°
and 270° while checking for the position where the runout is
minimum.
b. If the runout is still outside of the runout limit after the companion SDIA2078E

flange has been rotated on the drive pinion, possible cause

could be an assembly malfunction of drive pinion and drive pinion bearing or a malfunctioning drive pinion
bearing.
c. If the runout is still outside of the runout limit after repair of the assembly of drive pinion and drive pinion
bearing or drive pinion bearing, replace the companion flange.
DISASSEMBLY
Differential side shaft
1. Drain the differential gear oil if necessary.

Revision: September 2006 FFD-18 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

2. Remove the carrier cover bolts and separate the carrier cover
from the gear carrier using Tool. A
Tool number : KV10111100 (J-37228)
CAUTION:
● Do not damage the mating surface. B
● Do not insert flat-bladed screwdriver, this will damage the
mating surface.
C

PDIA0699E

FFD
3. Remove side oil seal.
CAUTION:
Do not damage gear carrier. E

G
PDIA0713E

4. Remove snap ring (hole side) using suitable tool.

H

PDIA0714E
K
5. Remove differential side shaft assembly out of gear carrier using
suitable tool.
NOTE: L
Tap on differential side shaft assembly from side gear side.
6. Remove snap ring (differential side shaft side).
M

PDIA0715E

7. Press differential side shaft out of differential side shaft bearing.

CAUTION:
Do not drop differential side shaft.

PDIA0718E

Revision: September 2006 FFD-19 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Differential Assembly
1. Remove differential side shaft assembly. Refer to FFD-18, "Differential side shaft" .
2. Remove side seal from gear carrier using suitable tool.
3. For proper reinstallation, paint matching marks on one side of
the side bearing cap and gear carrier.
CAUTION:
● For matching marks, use paint. Do not damage side bear-
ing cap or gear carrier.
● Side bearing caps are line-board during manufacture.
The matching marks are used to reinstall them in their
original positions.

PDIA0700E

4. Remove the side bearing caps.

PDIA0701E

5. Lift the differential case assembly out of the gear carrier.

CAUTION:
● Keep side bearing outer races together with side bearing
inner races. Do not mix them up.
● Keep side bearing adjusting washers together with side
bearings.

SPD919

6. Remove housing spacer.

7. Remove side bearing inner race using Tools as shown.
Tool number A: ST33051001 (J-22888-20)
B: ST33061000 (J-8107-2)
CAUTION:
● Do not remove side bearing inner race unless it is being
replaced.
● Place copper plates between the vise and the side bear-
ing inner race and drive gear to prevent damage.

PDIA0827E

Revision: September 2006 FFD-20 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

● Keep side bearing outer races together with side bearing

inner races. Do not mix them up. A

SPD022

FFD
8. For proper reinstallation, paint matching marks on the differential
case and drive gear.
CAUTION: E
Use paint for matching marks. Do not damage differential
case or drive gear.
9. Remove the drive gear bolts.
F
10. Tap the drive gear off the differential case using suitable tool.
CAUTION:
Tap evenly all around to keep drive gear from bending. G
PDIA0496E

11. Remove the lock pin of the pinion mate shaft from the drive gear
H
side using suitable tool.

SPD025
K
12. Remove the pinion mate shaft.

SDIA0031J

13. Turn the pinion mate gear, then remove the pinion mate gear,
pinion mate thrust washer, side gear and side gear thrust
washer from the differential case.

SDIA0032J

Revision: September 2006 FFD-21 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Drive Pinion Assembly

1. Remove the differential assembly. Refer to FFD-20, "Differential Assembly" .
2. Remove the drive pinion lock nut using Tool.
Tool number : KV38108300 (J-44195)
3. Put matching marks on the companion flange and drive pinion
using paint.
CAUTION:
Use paint to make the matching marks. Do not damage the
companion flange or drive pinion.

PDIA0702E

4. Remove the companion flange using suitable tool.

PDIA0703E

5. Press the drive pinion assembly (with rear inner bearing race
and collapsible spacer) out of the gear carrier.
CAUTION:
Do not drop drive pinion assembly.

PDIA0704E

6. Remove the drive pinion rear bearing inner race and drive pinion
height adjusting washer using Tool.
Tool number : ST30031000 (J-22912-01)

S-PD179

Revision: September 2006 FFD-22 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

7. Remove the front oil seal using suitable tool.

CAUTION: A
Do not damage gear carrier.

PDIA0716E

FFD
8. Remove the drive pinion front bearing inner race.
9. Remove the drive pinion front and rear bearing outer races by
tapping them uniformly using suitable tool. E
CAUTION:
Do not damage gear carrier.
F

PDIA0705E

INSPECTION AFTER DISASSEMBLY H

Clean the disassembled parts. Then inspect the parts for wear or damage. If wear or damage are found, follow
the measures below.
I
Drive Pinion and Drive Gear
● If the drive pinion and drive gear teeth do not mesh or line-up correctly, determine the cause and adjust,
repair, or replace as necessary. J
● If the drive pinion or drive gear are worn, cracked, damaged, pitted or chipped (by friction) noticeably,
replace with new drive pinion and drive gear.
● Drive pinion and drive gear are supplied in matched sets only. Matching numbers on both drive pinion and K
drive gear are etched for verification. If a new drive pinion and drive gear set are being used, verify the
numbers of each drive pinion and drive gear before proceeding with assembly.
Bearing L
● If bearings are chipped (by friction), pitted, worn, rusted, scratched, or unusual noise is coming from bear-
ing, replace with new bearing assembly (as a new set).
● Bearing must be replaced with a new one whenever disassembled. M
Side Gear and Pinion Mate Gear
● If any cracks or damage are found on the surface of the teeth, replace with new one.
● If any worn or chipped marks are found on the side of the side gear and pinion mate gear which contact
the thrust washer, replace with new one.
● Replace both side gear and pinion mate gear as a set when replacing side gear or pinion mate gear.
Side Gear Thrust Washer and Pinion Mate Thrust Washer
● If any chips (by friction), damage, or unusual wear are found, replace with new one.
Gear Carrier
● If any wear or cracks are found on the contact sides of gear carrier, replace with new one.
Companion Flange
● If any chips (about 0.1mm, 0.004 in) or other damage on the companion flange surface which contacts the
front oil seal lips are found, replace with new one.

Revision: September 2006 FFD-23 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

ADJUSTING AND SELECTING WASHERS

Side Gear Back Clearance
● Assemble the differential parts if they are disassembled. Refer to FFD-30, "Differential Assembly" .
1. Place the differential case straight up so that the side gear to be
measured is upward.

PDIA0460E

2. Using feeler gauges, measure the clearance between the side

gear back and differential case at three different points, while
rotating the side gear. Average the three readings to calculate
the clearance. (Measure the clearance of the other side as well.)
Side gear back clearance: 0.1 mm (0.004 in) or less.
● If the side gear back clearance is outside of the specification,
use a thicker or thinner side gear thrust washer to adjust.
Refer to FFD-35, "Side Gear Thrust Washer" .
If the side gear back clearance is greater than
specification:
Use a thicker side gear thrust washer.
If the side gear back clearance is less than
specification:
Use a thinner side gear thrust washer.
CAUTION:
● Insert feeler gauges with the same thickness on both
sides to prevent side gear from tilting.
● Each gear should rotate smoothly without excessive
resistance during differential motion.
● Select a side gear thrust washer for right and left individ-
PDIA0576E

ually.
NOTE:
Side gear back clearance is clearance between side gear and differential case for adjusting side gear
backlash.
Drive Pinion Height
1. Make sure all parts are clean and that the bearings are well lubricated.
2. Assemble the drive pinion bearings onto the Tool.
Tool number : — (J-34309)

SPD769

Revision: September 2006 FFD-24 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

● Drive pinion front bearing; make sure the J-34309-3 drive

pinion front bearing seat is secured tightly against the J- A
34309-2 gauge anvil. Then turn the J-34309-7 drive pinion
front bearing pilot to secure the drive pinon front bearing in its
proper position.
B
● Drive pinion rear bearing; the J-34309-8 drive pinion rear
bearing pilot is used to center the drive pinion rear bearing
only. The J-34309-4 drive pinion rear bearing locking seat is
used to lock the drive pinion rear bearing to the assembly. C
● Installation of J-34309-9 and J-34309-16; place a suitable
2.5 mm (0.098 in) thick plain washer between J-34309-9 and SPD197A

J-34309-16. Both surfaces of J-34309-9 and J-34309-16 must FFD

be parallel with a clearance of 2.5 mm (0.098 in).
3. Install the drive pinion rear bearing inner race into the gear car-
rier. Then insert the drive pinion height adjusting washer selec- E
tor tool, J-34309-1, gauge screw assembly.

SPD893

H
4. Assemble the drive pinion front bearing inner race and the J-
34309-2 gauge anvil. Assemble them together with the J-34309-
1 gauge screw in the gear carrier. Make sure that the drive pin-
I
ion height gauge plate, J-34309-16, will turn a full 360°. Tighten
the two sections together by hand.

K
SPD199A

5. Turn the assembly several times to seat the drive pinon bear-
L
ings.

SPD770

Revision: September 2006 FFD-25 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

6. Measure the turning torque at the end of the J-34309-2 gauge

anvil using Tool.
Tool number : ST3127S000 (J-25765- A)

Turning torque specification:

1.0 - 1.6 N·m (0.11 - 0.16 kg-m, 9 - 14 in-lb)

PDIA0566E

7. Place the J-34309-10 “R180A” drive pinion height adapter onto

the gauge plate and tighten it by hand.
CAUTION:
Make sure all machined surfaces are clean.

SPD208A

8. Position the side bearing discs, Tool, and arbor firmly into the
side bearing bores. Install the side bearing caps and tighten the
side bearing cap bolts to the specified torque. Refer to FFD-15,
"COMPONENTS" .
Tool number : — (J-25269-18)

SPD211A

9. Select the correct standard drive pinion height adjusting washer

thickness. Select by using a standard gauge of 3 mm (0.12 in)
and your J-34309-101 feeler gauge. Measure the distance
between the J-34309-10 drive pinion height adapter, including
the standard gauge and the arbor.

SPD204A

10. Write down the exact measurement (the value of feeler gauge).

SPD775

Revision: September 2006 FFD-26 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

11. Correct the drive pinion height adjusting washer size by referring
to the drive pinion “head number”. A
There are two numbers painted on the drive pinion. The first
one refers to the drive pinion and drive gear as a matched
set. This number should be the same as the number on the
B
drive gear. The second number is the drive pinion “head
number”. It refers to the ideal drive pinion height from stan-
dard for quietest operation. Use the following chart to
determine the correct drive pinion height adjusting washer. C

Add or remove from the standard drive pinion

Head number
height adjusting washer thickness measurement SPD542

FFD
-6 Add 0.06 mm (0.0024 in)
-5 Add 0.05 mm (0.0020 in)
-4 Add 0.04 mm (0.0016 in)
-3 Add 0.03 mm (0.0012 in) E
-2 Add 0.02 mm (0.0008 in)
-1 Add 0.01 mm (0.0004 in)
0 Use the selected washer thickness
+1 Subtract 0.01 mm (0.0004 in) F
+2 Subtract 0.02 mm (0.0008 in)
+3 Subtract 0.03 mm (0.0012 in)
+4 Subtract 0.04 mm (0.0016 in)
+5 Subtract 0.05 mm (0.0020 in) G
+6 Subtract 0.06 mm (0.0024 in)

12. Select the correct drive pinion height adjusting washer. Refer to FFD-35, "Drive Pinion Height Adjusting
Washer" . H
13. Remove the Tool from the gear carrier and disassemble to
retrieve the drive pinion bearings.
I
Tool number : — (J-34309)

K
SPD205A

Revision: September 2006 FFD-27 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY
Drive Pinion Assembly
1. Install drive pinion rear bearing outer race and drive pinion front
bearing outer race using Tools.
Tool number A: ST30611000 (J-25742-1)
B: ST30613000 (J-25742-3)
C: KV38100200 (J-26233)
CAUTION:
● First tap the drive pinion bearing outer race until it
becomes flush with the gear carrier.
● Do not reuse drive pinion front and rear bearing outer
race.

PDIA0707E

2. Select drive pinion height adjusting washer. Refer to FFD-24, "Drive Pinion Height" .
3. Install the selected drive pinion height adjusting washer to the
drive pinion. Press the drive pinion rear bearing inner race to it
using Tool.
Tool number : ST30901000 (J-26010-01)
CAUTION:
● Install the drive pinion height adjusting washer in the
proper direction as shown.
● Do not reuse drive pinion rear bearing inner race.

SDIA0048E

4. Install the collapsible spacer to the drive pinion.

CAUTION:
Do not reuse collapsible spacer.
5. Apply differential gear oil to the drive pinion rear bearing, and
install the drive pinion assembly to the gear carrier.
6. Apply differential gear oil to the drive pinion front bearing, and
install the drive pinion front bearing inner race to the drive pinion
assembly.
CAUTION:
Do not reuse drive pinion front bearing inner race. PDIA0708E

Revision: September 2006 FFD-28 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

7. Press the drive pinion front bearing inner race to the drive pinion
as far as drive pinion lock nut can be tightened using Tool. A
Tool number : ST33200000 (J-26082)

PDIA0709E

FFD
8. Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential gear oil to
the circumference of the new front oil seal. Then drive the new
front oil seal in evenly until it becomes flush with the gear carrier
using Tools. E
Tool number A: ST30720000 (J-25405)
B: ST27863000 ( — )
F
CAUTION:
● Do not reuse front oil seal.

● Do not incline the new front oil seal when installing. G

PDIA0717E
● Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential
gear oil to the circumference of the new front oil seal.
H
9. Install the companion flange to the drive pinion while aligning the matching marks.
10. Apply anti-corrosive oil to the threads of the drive pinion and the
seating surface of the new drive pinion lock nut. Then adjust the
I
drive pinion lock nut tightening torque using Tool A, and check
the drive pinion bearing preload torque using Tool B.
Tool number A: KV38108300 (J-44195)
J
B: ST3127S000 (J-25765-A)

Drive pinion bearing preload torque:

K
1.08 - 1.66 N·m (0.11 - 0.16 kg-m, 10 - 14 in-lb)
CAUTION:
● Do not reuse drive pinion lock nut. L
● Apply anti-corrosive oil to the threads of the drive pinion
and the seating surface of the new drive pinion lock nut.
● Adjust the drive pinion lock nut tightening torque to the M
lower limit first. Do not exceed the drive pinion lock nut
specified torque. Refer to FFD-15, "COMPONENTS" .
● If the drive pinion bearing preload torque exceeds the
specified value, replace collapsible spacer and tighten it
again to adjust. Do not loosen drive pinion lock nut to
adjust the drive pinion bearing preload torque.
● After adjustment, rotate drive pinion back and forth 2 to 3 WDIA0382E

times to check for unusual noise, rotation malfunction,

and other malfunctions.

11. Check companion flange runout. Refer to FFD-18, "Companion Flange Runout" .
12. Install the differential case assembly. Refer to FFD-30, "Differential Assembly" .

Revision: September 2006 FFD-29 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Differential Assembly
1. Install side gear thrust washers with the same thickness as the
ones installed prior to disassembly, or reinstall the old ones on
the side gears.

SDIA0193J

2. Install the side gears and side gear thrust washers into the dif-
ferential case.
3. Install the pinion mate thrust washers to the two pinion mate
gears. Then install the pinion mate gears with the pinion mate
thrust washers by aligning them in diagonally opposite positions
and rotating them into the differential case.

SDIA2025E

4. Install the pinion mate shaft and align the lock pin hole on the
pinion mate shaft with the lock pin hole on the differential case.
5. Measure the side gear end play. If necessary, select the appro-
priate side gear thrust washers. Refer to FFD-24, "Side Gear
Back Clearance" .

SDIA0195J

6. Drive a new lock pin into the pinion mate shaft until it is flush
with the differential case using suitable tool.
CAUTION:
Do not reuse lock pin.

SPD030

Revision: September 2006 FFD-30 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

7. Align the matching mark of the differential case with the mark of
the drive gear, then place the drive gear onto the differential A
case.

SDIA2593E

FFD
8. Apply thread locking sealant into the threaded holes of the drive
gear and install the new drive gear bolts.
● Use Genuine High Strength Thread Locking Sealant or equiv- E
alent. Refer to GI-47, "Recommended Chemical Products and
Sealants" .
CAUTION:
F
Make sure the drive gear back and threaded holes are
clean.

G
SDIA2594E

9. Tighten the new drive gear bolts to the specified torque. Refer to
H
FFD-15, "COMPONENTS" . After tightening the new drive gear
bolts to the specified torque, tighten an additional 34° to 39°
using Tool.
I
Tool number : KV10112100-A (BT-8653-A)
CAUTION:
● Always use Tool. Avoid tightening based on visual check
J
alone.
● Tighten new drive gear bolts in a crisscross pattern.

SDIA0247J
K
10. Press the new side bearing inner races to the differential case
using Tools.
L
Tool number A: ST33230000 (J-35867)
B: ST33061000 (J-8107-2)
CAUTION: M
Do not reuse side bearing inner races.

SPD353

11. Install housing spacer into gear carrier.

Revision: September 2006 FFD-31 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

12. Apply differential gear oil to the side bearings, and install the dif-
ferential case assembly with the side bearing outer races into
the gear carrier.
CAUTION:
Do not reuse side bearing outer race when replacing side
bearing inner race (replace as a set).

SPD527

13. Insert left and right original side bearing adjusting washers in
place between side bearings and gear carrier using Tool.
Tool number : KV38100600 (J-25267)

PDIA0706E

14. Install the side bearing caps with the matching marks aligned
and tighten the side bearing cap bolts to the specified torque.
Refer to FFD-15, "COMPONENTS" .

PDIA0700E

15. Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential gear oil to
the circumference of the new side oil seal. Then drive the new
side oil seal in evenly until it becomes flush with the gear carrier
using Tools.
Tool number A: ST30720000 (J-25405)
B: ST27863000 ( — )
CAUTION:
● Do not reuse side oil seal.

● Do not incline the new side oil seal when installing.

PDIA0711E
● Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential
gear oil to the circumference of the new side oil seal.
16. Check and adjust tooth contact, backlash, drive gear runout and total preload torque. Refer to FFD-17,
"Tooth Contact" , FFD-18, "Backlash" , FFD-16, "Drive Gear Runout" and FFD-16, "Total Preload Torque"
.
Recheck above items.

Revision: September 2006 FFD-32 2007 Frontier

 FRONT FINAL DRIVE ASSEMBLY

17. Apply a 3 mm (0.12 in) bead of sealant to the mating surface of

the carrier cover as shown. A
● Use Genuine Silicone RTV or equivalent. Refer to GI-47,
"Recommended Chemical Products and Sealants" .
CAUTION: B
Remove any old sealant adhering to the mating surfaces.
Also remove any moisture, oil, or foreign material adhering
to the application and mating surfaces.
C
18. Install the carrier cover to the gear carrier. Tighten the bolts to
the specified torque. Refer to FFD-15, "COMPONENTS" .
PDIA0712E

FFD
Differential side shaft
1. Press differential side shaft bearing to differential side shaft.
CAUTION: E
Do not reuse differential side shaft bearing.
2. Install snap ring (differential side shaft side).
3. Install differential side shaft assembly into gear carrier.
F
4. Install snap ring (hole side).

PDIA0719E

5. Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential gear oil to H

the circumference of the new side oil seal. Then drive the new
side oil seal in evenly until it becomes flush with the gear carrier
using Tools. I
Tool number A: ST30720000 (J-25405)
B: ST27863000 ( — )
J
CAUTION:
● Do not reuse side oil seal.

● Do not incline the new side oil seal when installing.

K
● Apply multi-purpose grease to the lips and differential
PDIA0828E

gear oil to the circumference of the new side oil seal.

L

Revision: September 2006 FFD-33 2007 Frontier

 SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS (SDS)

SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS (SDS) PFP:00030

General Specifications EDS0046O

Body type King cab Crew cab

Engine type VQ40DE
Final drive model R180A
Transmission type 6M/T 5A/T 6M/T 5A/T
Electronic locking differential N/A Applicable N/A Applicable Not-applicable/Applicable
Gear ratio 3.538 3.692 3.133 3.357 3.692 3.357
Number of teeth (Drive gear/Drive pinion) 46/13 48/13 47/15 47/14 48/13 47/14
Differential gear oil capacity (Approx.) 0.85 (1-3/4 US pt, 1-1/2 lmp pt)
Number of pinion gears 2
Drive pinion adjustment spacer type Collapsible

Inspection and Adjustment EDS0046P

DRIVE GEAR RUNOUT

Unit: mm (in)
Item Runout limit
Drive gear back face 0.08 (0.0031) or less

SIDE GEAR CLEARANCE

Unit: mm (in)
Item Specification
0.1 (0.004) or less
Side gear back clearance (Clearance between side gear and dif-
(Each gear should rotate smoothly without excessive resistance
ferential case for adjusting side gear backlash)
during differential motion.)

PRELOAD TORQUE
Unit: N·m (kg-m, in-lb)
Item Specification
Drive pinion bearing preload torque 1.08 - 1.66 (0.11 - 0.16, 10 - 14)
Side bearing preload torque 0.59 - 1.08 (0.06 - 0.11, 6 - 9)
Total preload torque
(Total preload torque = drive pinion bearing preload torque + side 1.67 - 2.74 (0.17 - 0.27, 15 - 24)
bearing preload torque).

BACKLASH
Unit: mm (in)
Item Specification
Drive gear to drive pinion backlash 0.10 - 0.15 (0.0039 - 0.0059)

COMPANION FLANGE RUNOUT

Unit: mm (in)
Item Runout limit
Companion flange face 0.1 (0.004) or less
Companion flange inner side 0.1 (0.004) or less

Revision: September 2006 FFD-34 2007 Frontier

 SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS (SDS)

SELECTIVE PARTS
Drive Pinion Height Adjusting Washer A
Unit: mm (in)
Thickness Part number* Thickness Part number*
B
3.09 (0.1217) 38154 EA000 3.39 (0.1335) 38154 EA010
3.12 (0.1228) 38154 EA001 3.42 (0.1346) 38154 EA011
3.15 (0.1240) 38154 EA002 3.45 (0.1358) 38154 EA012
3.18 (0.1252) 38154 EA003 3.48 (0.1370) 38154 EA013 C
3.21 (0.1264) 38154 EA004 3.51 (0.1382) 38154 EA014
3.24 (0.1276) 38154 EA005 3.54 (0.1394) 38154 EA015
3.27 (0.1287) 38154 EA006 3.57 (0.1406) 38154 EA016
3.30 (0.1299) 38154 EA007 3.60 (0.1417) 38154 EA017 FFD
3.33 (0.1311) 38154 EA008 3.63 (0.1429) 38154 EA018
3.36 (0.1323) 38154 EA009 3.66 (0.1441) 38154 EA019
*: Always check with the Parts Department for the latest parts information. E
Side Gear Thrust Washer
Unit: mm (in)
Thickness Part number* Thickness Part number* F
0.75 (0.0295) 38424 W2010 0.87 (0.0343) 38424 W2014
0.78 (0.0307) 38424 W2011 0.90 (0.0354) 38424 W2015
0.81 (0.0319) 38424 W2012 0.93 (0.0366) 38424 W2016 G
0.84 (0.0331) 38424 W2013 0.96 (0.0378) 38424 W2017
*: Always check with the Parts Department for the latest parts information.

Side Bearing Adjusting Washer H

Unit: mm (in)
Thickness Part number* Thickness Part number*
1.95 (0.0768) 38453 EA000 2.35 (0.0925) 38453 EA008 I
2.00 (0.0787) 38453 EA001 2.40 (0.0945) 38453 EA009
2.05 (0.0807) 38453 EA002 2.45 (0.0965) 38453 EA010
2.10 (0.0827) 38453 EA003 2.50 (0.0984) 38453 EA011
J
2.15 (0.0846) 38453 EA004 2.55 (0.1004) 38453 EA012
2.20 (0.0866) 38453 EA005 2.60 (0.1024) 38453 EA013
2.25 (0.0886) 38453 EA006 2.65 (0.1043) 38453 EA014
2.30 (0.0906) 38453 EA007 K
*: Always check with the Parts Department for the latest parts information.

Revision: September 2006 FFD-35 2007 Frontier

 SERVICE DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS (SDS)

Revision: September 2006 FFD-36 2007 Frontier