How to Remove and Swap the Rear Differential on a Mitsubishi Evo X
How to Remove and Swap the Rear Differential on a Mitsubishi Evo X
Swapping the rear diff on an Evo X is a heavy-duty driveway job, but it saves you massive labor rates. If your factory diff is clicking or locked up, this walk-through covers the removal, fluid drain, and subframe teardown.
The Short Answer (TL;DR)
This DIY rear differential swap for the Mitsubishi Evo X takes roughly 4 to 6 hours for an experienced driveway mechanic. You must drop the exhaust mid-pipe, unbolt the suspension hubs, and pull the rear axles. Since you are dropping the exhaust and working around the subframe, it is the perfect time to install aftermarket exhaust components or suspension upgrades.
The DIY Process Overview
Start by getting all four corners of the Evo safely on jack stands. You will need a 12mm socket to remove the axle brace loops and rear diff bolt brace. Next, unbolt the exhaust mid-pipe to clear a path for the rear axles. Drain the fluids from both the rear differential gear oil and the AYC ATF SP3 oil before loosening the 14mm flare nuts on the AYC hard lines.
To pull the axles, loosen the eccentric bolts for the toe arms and disconnect the lower strut nut. Disconnect the top rear control arm ball joint to drop the rear hub assembly. Support the hub with a bungee cord to protect your brake lines and ABS sensors. Use a flathead and hammer against the inner axle cup to safely back the axles out of the differential.
With the axles free, unbolt the rear diff backend brace from the subframe. Mark your driveshaft orientation and unbolt it using 14mm wrenches, supporting it with a separate stand. Finally, remove the side mount bolts while supporting the differential housing with a hydraulic floor jack. Lower the unit, swap over your mustache bar and mounts, and reverse the process for reinstallation.
Why You Should Upgrade While You're In There
Dropping the rear differential requires you to unbolt the exhaust mid-pipe and work directly inside the rear subframe. Since your exhaust is already apart, this is the ideal time to install a high-flow cat-back exhaust system. Removing factory restrictions reduces backpressure, allows the turbo to spool faster, and improves overall throttle response.
Recommended Upgrade: 3-Inch Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my axle nuts when pulling the axles?
Yes. If you completely remove the axles from the hubs, the axle split pin, axle nut, and lock washer are strictly one-time-use items. Always replace them with fresh OEM hardware to ensure exact torque retention and wheel bearing safety.
What fluids do I need to refill the Evo X rear diff?
You will need specific Mitsubishi Diaqueen fluids. Grab 1 quart of Gear Oil Diaqueen (MZ320345) for the mechanical gear side and 1 quart of Diamond ATF SP3 (MZ320200) for the AYC pump. You will also need to properly bleed the AYC system after the new differential is installed.
Shop Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Upgrades Here
