how much backlash should you have between the ring and pinion and also how do you shim the carrier.The last time I had the rear apart the carrier had to really thick shims( like a 1/4") one on each side, do I replace them with thinner shims or what?
Thanks for the help
Matt

 

You're right, the stock shims are cast iron ones, about .250" (+/- .003 in my case..)
If you're replacing the carrier, you can try the stock shims. Check backlash and pattern. If you need to change it, buy a shim kit, and start stacking. Thick shims on the sides, thinnest ones in the middle of the stack. Got a book on this? this is pretty important stuff, and I haven't described this completely here....

 

If I am not mistaken it's .006-.010 is the acceptable range. Have fun shimming that and get a dial indicator with a flexable mount.

 

any recommendations for a book to help with the swap. The plan is a complete rebuild of the rear. any help is appreciated