How to Install Maximum Motorsports Modified Ford Performance IRS Differential Cover (99-04 Cobra) on your Ford Mustang

! ! ! PLEASE READ ALL OF THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY PRIOR TO INSTALLATION. AT ANY TIME YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE FORD RACING TECHLINE AT 1-800-367-3788 ! ! !

INTRODUCTION: 

This kit is for use on 8.8" independent axle housings in 1999-2004 Cobra Mustangs. The components in this kit will increase the stiffness and durability of the housing assembly.  The installation of this axle gridle can be performed by anyone with above average amount of mechanical experience, but it is very important to follow the instructions. If you do not feel comfortable after reading the instructions, have the installation performed by an experienced mechanic. 

STEP 1: Remove axle housing. Refer to Ford Factory shop manual. 
 
STEP 2: Remove rear cover. Check all internal components for visible defects and repair/replace at this time. 
 
STEP 3: Clean housing and axle gridle surfaces with brake and parts cleaner. Apply a bead of Permatex®                                Hylomar® flange sealant to both the cover and housing surfaces. Allow solvent to evaporate. 
 
STEP 4: Install the girdle with the supplied bolts and washers. Make sure the load bolts are backed out sufficiently so they will not contact the differential bearing caps while installing the girdle. 
 
STEP 5: Torque the girdle to the axle housing bolts to 20-25 ft./lbs. Recheck torque after 10 minutes. 
 
STEP 6:            Remove all plugs from axle gridle and apply pipe sealant to threads. Reinstall all plugs torque to 25 ft./lbs. 
 
STEP 7: Tighten the two load bolts until they make contact with the differential bearing caps. 
 
STEP 8: Torque the load bolts to 5-10 ft./lbs. Excessive torque can damage the differential bearings!  Torque the jam nuts to 25-30 ft./lbs. 
 
STEP 9: With axle housing installed, remove fill level plug (below RH side load bolt), fill rear axle with recommended lube from the upper hole in the girdle until fluid runs out of the fill level hole. Re-install plugs. Torque to 25 ft./lbs.                           

Note: Axle gridle has provisions for oil cooler fittings. Pickup at bottom of cover, return above RH load bolt.