I was recently asked:
Quote:
Forgive my non-technical knowledge, but is the h233b the third member itself (rear diff)?
Let me preface this by stating once again that I am not a mechanic or/and engineer. I take my 2001 Xterra off-road and work on it now and then.
My limited understanding is that the “3rd member” in my truck (also called a “drop out carrier” or “removable carrier”) is the carrier that holds the ring/pinion, side bearings, and differential assembly (in my case the locker). It is removable from the axle housing; as such it is a part or “3rd member” of my h233b (housing and axles being 1st and 2nd, I’m not sure what is what).
My 3rd member:
My h233b with the 3rd member out:
![Image](https://www.nexterra.org/gallery/d/10747-2/gutted+h233b.JPG)
In comparison, this is my D44 where the carrier is part of the axle housing:
![Image](https://www.nexterra.org/gallery/d/10735-2/D44_+ARB_+5_13.JPG)
Hope this helps someone…
![Image](https://www.nexterra.org/gallery/d/13029-1/peabody1.jpg)