Backlash Inspection and Adjustment

Backlash Inspection and Adjustment

^ Tools Required
- J 8001 Dial Indicator Set
- J 36599-A Side Bearing Nut Wrench
- J 36615 Side Bearing Nut Wrench

1. Mark the location of the differential adjuster nut sleeves in relation to the differential carrier halves.Ensure that the notches can be counted when turned.





2. Install the J 8001-1 (1, 2), the J 8001-2 (3), and the J 8001-3 (4) as shown.Ensure that the button contacts the outer edge of the pinion yoke and that the plunger is at a right angle to the pinion yoke.
3. Move the pinion yoke back and forth through the pinion yoke's free play while not allowing the ring gear to move.
4. Record the dial indicator reading.
5. To determine the actual backlash, divide the dial indicator reading by 2.An actual dial indicator reading of 0.16 mm (0.006 inch) means that there is actually 0.08 mm (0.003 inch) backlash. The backlash between the ring gear and the drive pinion should be between 0.08-0.25 mm (0.003-0.010 inch) with a preferred specification of 0.13-0.18 mm (0.005-0.007 inch).

6. If the backlash is too small, increase the backlash by turning the left differential adjuster nut sleeve in one notch using the J 36599-A , 8.25 inch axle, or the J 36615 , 9.25 inch axle, and the right differential adjuster nut sleeve out one notch using the J 36599-A.

Important:
When adjusting the backlash, observe the following:
^ Always turn the left and the right differential adjuster nut sleeves in equal amounts.
^ Turning the differential adjuster nut sleeves one notch will change the backlash about 0.08 mm (0.003 inch).

7. If the backlash is too large, decrease the backlash by turning the right differential adjuster nut sleeve in one notch using the J 36599-A and the left differential adjuster nut sleeve out one notch using the J 36599-A, 8.25 inch axle, or the J 36615, 9.25 inch axle.
8. Recheck the backlash and adjust as necessary.
9. Recheck the rotating torque of the pinion and differential assembly and adjust as necessary.
10. Once the backlash and rotating torque of the pinion and differential assembly is correct, perform a gear tooth contact pattern check to ensure proper contact between the pinion and the ring gear.