I am still having some issues getting pinion depth correct. I understand each ring and pinion have a different depth. There are 2 numbers on the pinion gear. I was wondering if one of them is the pinion depth spec, I was wondering if that is correct. Also during measurement does the the pinion have to torqued to spec before the depth measurement is checked

 

The 2.2** is the depth from axle center and for mockup nothing has to be installed oter than a slip fit pinion inner bearing . You drop the pinion in and measure the distance from axle center and compare the two measurements to find what sims you need to get your settup to match the pinions 2.2** .

 

It helps when you have a setup bearing that doesn't need to be pressed on and off the pinion so you can easily change the shims. Once the proper shim is determined, you press on the bearing for final assembly.

 

What problem are you having? Use the shim that was on the original pinion and do a test assembly. Check the contact pattern and make adjustments from that. If you are going to set the final bearing preload at 19 inch pounds then set it at 19 inch pounds when doing the trial assemblies. Be sure to get the backlash set correct on each trial assembly. Pinion depth should ALWAYS be set by reading the contact pattern.

 

I tried using the original shim which was .070 and when I got it all together the assembly was locked up tight. I am using the ratech pinion depth gauge a friend loaned me. I am starting to wonder if it may be bent or reading off somehow. I ordered a brand new one along with the 4111 spacer to use in place of the crush sleeve (just for set up)

 

The pinion shim should be no where near .070. It should be somewhere in the .030 to .040 range. put a .035 in ahd try it. If the rear end locked up then that means that you didn't set the backlash. Never use a crush spacer or solid spacer for set up. Those are for the final assembly ONLY.

 

Carrier backlash was .008. So basicly all need to do is just check the depth by just setting the pinion down into the housing, does not have to be torqued down

 

The .070 was the original when it had the 2.73's with an open diff.

 

Backlash should be ,if I remember right , between .004 and .009 .And yes pinion depth can be checked like I previously posted .

 

Thanks for all your help guys it is much appreciated...