West Coast Differentials has been distributing quality differential and axle parts since 1982. We believe that our exceptional customer service and product knowledge is what sets us apart from the competition. Give us a try, we think you'll be glad you did!
The most current parts and application information can always be found here on our website or by calling one of our differential parts experts. All of the parts we sell are also used every day in our busy service shop. This gives us confidence in the quality of the parts we sell.Differential and Axle Technical Help
These pages are intended to answer the most common questions and help you solve the most common problems with differential and axle identification, repair, setup, modification and problem diagnosis. If you don’t find the technical help that you need on these pages, contact us, and talk to a differential and axle expert at (800)510-0950.
Differential & Axle Identification
Accurate Differential Identification is the first and most important step in your differential repair, upgrade or overhaul project. Read More
Differential Carrier Breaks
Differential carriers are designed to accommodate a range of Ring & Pinion gear ratios for the various tire sizes and vehicle applications. Read More
Differential Gear Ratio Calculators
Use our Differential Gear Ratio Calculator page to determine the best ring and pinion gear ratio for your vehicle. Read More
Differential Problem Diagnosis
Noises, vibrations and other irregular driving characteristics can often help diagnose a differential or driveline problem. Read More
How to Measure Axle Shafts
Accurate measurement of axle shafts is a crucial step in getting the right axle for your application. We stock tons of axle shafts. Read More
Differential Failure Analysis
A visual inspection of the failed or damaged ring and pinion gears and/or bearings will usually indicate the cause of most failures. Read More
Differential Installation Instructions
By following these differential installation instructions carefully, you will achieve proper set up, hoping these instructions are helpful. Read More
Frequent Gear and Axle Questions & Answers
Our staff of Differential Experts is ready to help with your specific axles and differentials questions Monday thru Friday from 8am to 5pm. Read More
Differential Preload, Backlash and Torque Specifications
The following are recommended Differential Set-Up Specifications for various differentials. If in doubt, consult our staff of differential parts specialists. Read More
General Motors RPO Codes
GM RPO Codes, or General Motors “Regular Production Option” codes contain lots of valuable information about your GM vehicle. Read More
Ring & Pinion Break-In Procedure
Improper gear break-in procedures may cause overloading and overheating of the ring and pinion gears as well as break down of the gear oil. Read More
Axle Assembly Exploded Views
Exploded views of typical differential and axle assemblies with part names indicated.
More Tech Resources
- Tire Rotation Test to Determine Gear Ratio
- What Gear Ratio do I Need?
- Gear Ratio & Tire Size Calculators
- Differential Identification using Tags & Pictures
- GM RPO Code Definitions
- Measuring Axle Shafts & Bolt Circles
- Installation Instructions
- Set-up & Torque Specifications
- New Gear Set Break-In Procedure
- Carrier Breaks & Deck Heights
- Diagnosing Differential and Gear Noise
- Failure Analysis
- Exploded Views – Parts Identification
- FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions
- Model 20 One-Piece Axle Kit Instructions
- Tech Bulletin: Dana 44 Housing Drainage
- 55 Passenger Housing Modification for Posi
- Cross-Pin / Ring Gear Interference – Clearancing
- Ford 9″ Dropout Modification for ARB Air Locker
- JK Locker Sensor – Correct Positioning
- Two Cut vs. Five Cut Ring & Pinion Gears
- ARB Installation – Ford TTB
