Posted by Vaughn on Sunday, April 17, 2005 at 12:28PM :
In Reply to: Re: Two Part driveline Question posted by Matthew - Nebraska on Sunday, April 17, 2005 at 1:34AM :
If the ring and pinnion looks ok and it turns smoothly, then you should start by:
- Removing the front pinnion seal and retightening the nut to at least 120lbs. 300lbs is required if you can get a torque wrench that will read that high.
- next is to check the inch pounds on the case bearings (10-15 inch pounds) You will need to lock the pinnion and side gears in the case and turn the case using a troque wrench to be able to check it. I made a tool to slip inside the side gear using flat stock and a cheap 3/8 drive extension welding the two pieces together. If the bearings have to be adjusted, you will need a dial indicator to check backlash (.005-.010) between the ring and pinnion. Make sure you make equal turns of the bearing adjusters(castle top slots) on each side of the case
- Make sure the nut can go the full length of threads on the drive gear thrust screw then screw in the screw and place the thrust pad on and contiue to screw in the pads socket. Make sure the pad's curve matches that of the ring gear's outter side.
- Quarter the rotation of one full rotation of the ring gear. On one of the quarters, adjust the screw till you have .005-.008 clearance between the pad and ring gear. Check at each quarter point making adjustments for any difference in case run out.
This can seem complicated, but to prevent additional problems you need to ensure a few other items are in adjustment before making the pad & ring gear adjustment. A ring & pinnion shop can do the work for you.
If you're new to these trucks, it's always good to post what you plan to do if your not sure how to proceed. Enjoy!
TIP - Never mess with a screw that is locked by a nut. That always indicates and adjust is required.