2016 Jeep Wrangler Sport. Front and Rear Differential Gear Change To 4.88's

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of changing the front and rear differential gears in a 2016 Jeep Wrangler Sport from 3.23:1 to 4.88:1. Additionally, we will cover the installation of a front locker and the replacement of front ball joints. This upgrade will enhance your Jeep's performance, especially for off-road driving.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Parts

Before starting the gear change, ensure you have all the required tools and parts.

Tools Needed

• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Gear puller
• Differential cover gasket
• Sealant
• Pliers

Parts Needed

• 4.88:1 gear set
• Front locker
• Front ball joints
• Differential fluid

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

Ensure your Jeep is safely prepared for the gear change.

• Park the vehicle on a flat surface.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Lift the front and rear of the Jeep using a jack and secure it with jack stands.

Step 3: Remove the Differential Covers

Access the differential gears by removing the covers.

• Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts from the differential covers.
• Carefully pry off the covers and let the old differential fluid drain into a container.

Step 4: Remove Old Gears

With the covers off, you can now remove the existing gears.

• Take out the differential carrier by removing the retaining bolts.
• Use a gear puller if necessary to detach the gears from the axle shafts.
• Keep track of your parts for reassembly.

Step 5: Install New Gears

Install the new 4.88:1 gears into your differential.

• Place the new gears into the differential housing.
• Ensure proper alignment and spacing as per manufacturer specifications.
• Reinstall the differential carrier and secure it with the retaining bolts.

Step 6: Install the Front Locker

Enhance your Jeep's off-road capability by installing a front locker.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific locker model.
• Typically, this involves placing the locker in the differential and securing it similarly to how you installed the new gears.

Step 7: Replace Front Ball Joints

While the front is apart, take the opportunity to replace the front ball joints.

• Remove the old ball joints by unbolting them from the control arms.
• Install new ball joints, ensuring they are properly seated and secured.

Step 8: Reassemble and Refill Differential

With new gears and components in place, it’s time to reassemble.

• Clean the differential housing and install new gaskets with sealant.
• Reattach the differential covers and tighten the bolts to manufacturer specifications.
• Refill the differential with fresh fluid.

Step 9: Lower the Vehicle and Test

Once everything is reassembled, it’s time to bring the Jeep back down.

• Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle.
• Start the engine and engage the four-wheel drive to test the new gears and locker.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully changed the differential gears in your 2016 Jeep Wrangler Sport and installed a front locker. This upgrade will significantly enhance your off-road performance. If you encounter any issues during your installation, refer to the linked part 2 video for further troubleshooting and tips. Happy driving!