Pinion Depth Adjustment

- Tools Required:
- J 36601 Pinion Depth Setting Gauge
- J 29763 Dial Indicator
- J 21777 Pinion Setting Gauge Set

1. Pinion depth is adjusted by selecting a shim of the proper thickness.





2. Lubricate the pinion bearings liberally with axle lubricant.
3. Assemble J 29763 to the proper gauging arm (J 36601-4).
4. Install the pinion bearings and hold them in place.
5. Insert the threaded rod of J 36601 through the pinion bearings.
6. Install the proper pilot, washer, and nut.
7. Tighten the nut while holding the threaded rod with a wrench to adjust bearing preload. Adjust the nut to obtain a preload of 1.0-1.6 Nm (10-15 inch lbs.) using an inch pound torque wrench. Rotate the shaft several times to make sure the bearings have seated, then measure again.
8. Push the dial indicator downward until the needle rotates about 3/4 turns.
9. Tighten the dial indicator in this position.





10. Set the button of J 36601 on the differential bearing bore.
11. Rotate the tool slowly back and forth until the dial indicator reads the lowest point of the bore. Set the dial indicator to ZERO. Repeat the rocking action of the tool to verify the ZERO setting.





12. After the ZERO setting is obtained and verified, grasp the gauging arm by the flats and move the tool button out of the differential side bearing bore. Record the dial indicator reading.
13. The dial indicator reading is equal to the required shim size. Example: If the dial indicator reads 0.508 mm in Step 8, a 0.508 shim is required. Available shim sizes are listed in SPECIFICATIONS.

NOTICE: Proper pinion depth setting is a two-step procedure. Both procedures must be performed to ensure proper axle performance and prevent system damage.
A. Setup dimension arrived at with the indicator is to be considered a starting point.
B. Gear tooth pattern check is necessary to "fine-tune" the pinion depth and may indicate additional shim changes to the pinion stem.

14. Remove the tool and bearing cones.