Selecting Correct Pinion Shim

Fig. 5 Removable carrier 9 inch ring gear axle pinion depth tool gauge:

Fig. 6 Using pinion depth gauge tool:

When the ring gear and drive pinion or pinion bearings are replaced, the correct pinion shim thickness must be determined using tool T79P-4020-A or equivalent.
1. Select proper rear pinion bearing aligning adapter and gauge disc and slide these adapters over screw or threaded shaft, Fig. 5.
2. Install gauge block on threaded shaft and tighten securely, Fig. 6 (1).
3. Place assembly and rear drive pinion bearing into pinion bearing retainer assembly, then install front pinion bearing and screw handle onto threaded shaft, tapered end into front pinion bearing, Fig. 6 (1) and (2). Flat end of handle has 3/8 inch hole cut in it so that an inch pound torque wrench may be used to obtain proper pinion bearing preload.
4. Install pinion bearing retainer assembly into carrier, less shim, torquing attaching bolts to 30---40 ft. lbs.
5. Rotate gauge block so that it rests against pilot boss, Fig. 6 (3).
6. Using feeler gauge, measure distance between gauge block and gauge tube, Fig. 6 (4). Insert blade directly along gauge block top to ensure a correct reading. Fit should be a slight drag-type feeling.
7. Select proper shim according to feeler gauge reading, Fig. 6.