At times it can be difficult to find quality aftermarket parts for the second generation Nissan Xterra, so when a product comes along for our trucks that gives us piece of mind on the trial it’s worth mentioning.  The Blue Torch Fab rear cover for the M226 differential has been out for a couple years, but I finally decided to pull the trigger on this item.  The cover, which fits 2005+ Off Road models  (auto or manual) and 2005+ manual transmission models, consists of a beefy laser cut ¼ plate for the shell, and 3/8 plate for the ring.

One modification is required prior to installation of this cover keeping it from a quick bolt-on application.  A dry fit of the cover on the differential revealed a common problem for us Xterra owners.  Slight modifications to the ring on both the driver and passenger sides of the ring are required for fitment issues.  Simple grinding away of a portion of the interior of the ring solves the problem without any worry (see photo).

Clean the interior of the cover to ensure no small metal shavings remain upon installation, paint the exterior prior to installation, apply RTV sealant around the ring and bolt on the cover.  Fill with differential fluid through the 14mm fill point, screw the cap back on the cover and you’re ready to hit the trails knowing there’s little risk to peeling back this new cover if you get hung up on a rock.