I bought a 90 Legacy sedan 2wd automatic for my daughter. The guy said it had a "small" transmission problem. When I checked it out, I realized it was the differential. It was filled with ATF and chunks of metal.

 

I got a used trans in a wrecking yard off a car with over 200,000 on the odometer. I'd rather use the trans I've got in the car, since it has a lot less mileage and I've seen it shift. The wrecking yard diff is smooth and quiet, so I'm not concerned about it. I have the diff separated from the trans, but I'm not sure how to remove the pinion. I'd appreciate any help.

You have to remove the tailhousing then the big nut on the pinion shaft and lightly drive the shaft out thru the main case. Dont forget to also remove the 4 nuts on the pinion shaft plate of course as well.

Thanks. I'll give it a try in the morning. Anything I need to be especially careful about?