WK1/XK Front Diff Bushings

1. Identify whether the front CV/U-joint bolts are 8mm hex heads or 6mm allen, then remove all bolts holding the joint to the front differential.
2. Using a 16mm socket, remove the two bolts holding the front bushing to the subframe.
3. Using an 18mm socket and 18mm wrench, remove the three bolts holding the front bushing to the differential.
4. With long extensions, an 18mm socket on one ratchet, and a 15mm socket on the other, remove the nut from the bolt going through the pinion bushing — leave the bolt in place to support the differential. Reach over the sway bar and steering rack.
5. With the 18mm/15mm combo, remove the nut from the bolt through the passenger-side bushing.
6. Disconnect the differential vent tube and electrical connector (if equipped).
7. Pull both bolts out and rotate the diff downward so the pinion faces the ground.

Using the Creative Steel Tool

1. Set up the tool on the passenger bushing per the PDF photo. Use the 19mm socket and wrench, holding the top still and turning the bottom — the bearing helps press the bushing out.
2. Repeat the setup on the pinion bushing. Make sure the notch in the cup lines up with the differential housing.
3. Confirm both OEM bushings are out completely and the bores are clean and burr-free.
4. Press all four polyurethane bushings into the pinion and passenger bushing housings. Grease the supplied tubes and press them in (a rubber mallet helps).
5. Lift the diff back into place and slide a bolt through each pinion and passenger bushing. Install the front bushing to the differential cover, oriented so the cross-bar's larger reliefs are toward the top.
6. Reinstall everything in reverse order. Torque to spec.

Torque Specs