Ive got an 83 ea81 wagon with 4x4 hi/low range - I was wondering if there is a way to weld the gears in the back, or otherwise lock the diff in the rear of the car?

 

I have never opened up a subaru rear end - I dont know if welding is even possible, or if its something i want to do. I just want something as close to a locker, or posi as possible, as i only use this car off road

 

thanks!

 

-Dan

Welding is pretty easy actually. Weld the spider gears to each other at each corner (4 welds).... I like to use a nice grade 8 bolt and jam it in the gears at the point where I make the weld. Never had one break yet. Don't weld the gears to the carrier as that is cast, and brittle. The gears are hardened, and will make a much tougher weld.

Welding is pretty easy actually. Weld the spider gears to each other at each corner (4 welds).... I like to use a nice grade 8 bolt and jam it in the gears at the point where I make the weld. Never had one break yet. Don't weld the gears to the carrier as that is cast, and brittle. The gears are hardened, and will make a much tougher weld.

can you weld it in the car ? also what did you use to clean off the gear oil ? what type of rod did you use ? thanks john

It can be done on the car, yes. It's best to remove it so you can be sure there are is no spatter left inside the diff before reinstalling. I used brake cleaner as it leaves no residue to clean the gears. Since I used a Lincoln 220v MIG to do the welding I could not comment on the rod type.

It can be done on the car, yes. It's best to remove it so you can be sure there are is no spatter left inside the diff before reinstalling. I used brake cleaner as it leaves no residue to clean the gears. Since I used a Lincoln 220v MIG to do the welding I could not comment on the rod type.

thank you for your help, i have a 220 mig with gas that should work hate to go through the trouble to take it out have a good one!