setting backlash

[mossyoaktj]

ive been looking around for a good thread that goes in depth about setting backlash. i will be building my axles here soon this is my shy area. in case it matters i will be doin it on a HP30 and an 8.8

bryan

[93 Krawler]

I believe it's around .008

[mossyoaktj]

Originally Posted by 93 Krawler

I believe it's around .008

im good on the tolerance its more of the how to. ill be switching ring and pinion to run 4.88 well pretty much a complete rebuild. so a "how to set backlast correctly for dummies":confused: is what im lookig for.

[93 Krawler]

Well, the placement of the shims differs with some axles. I have found that starting with the original shims gets you close. It can be a pain to get your correct backlash and a good tooth pattern. You'll need a dial indicator and a micrometer. Some of the shims are behind the side bearings, which need a puller or press to remove. I've read many how to articles online about it. I've done it about 7 times. I say read up a lot and dig in. Reading the tooth pattern tells you what it needs.

[mossyoaktj]

Originally Posted by 93 Krawler

Well, the placement of the shims differs with some axles. I have found that starting with the original shims gets you close. It can be a pain to get your correct backlash and a good tooth pattern. You'll need a dial indicator and a micrometer. Some of the shims are behind the side bearings, which need a puller or press to remove. I've read many how to articles online about it. I've done it about 7 times. I say read up a lot and dig in. Reading the tooth pattern tells you what it needs.

probably a stupid question but the shims are on the pinion correct. so wouldnt you have to unload it then load it again?

by the time all this goes together i will be out of the military (june this year) so might hav eto have a garage party with someone who can teach. id like to do it right the first time.

[Flxratd]

Originally Posted by mossyoaktj

probably a stupid question but the shims are on the pinion correct. so wouldnt you have to unload it then load it again?

by the time all this goes together i will be out of the military (june this year) so might hav eto have a garage party with someone who can teach. id like to do it right the first time.

there can be shims on the pinion pending the type of diff your dealing with(i know hp30 and 8.8)just giving a general answer there but you will need to start by setting pinion depth and bearing preload (rotating force one the bearings in inch pounds). preload will also change if your using new or used bearings. once that is set then there can be shims on the sides of the carrier bearings(again diff specific) some behind the bearings (pita) some between bearing and housing that will set your backlash. when installing those shims it needs to be tight where the shims go in or it will compress and change the backlash number. there is alot of detail and im not trying to scare you from trying it but if its a street vehicle they are either right or wrong, trail only rigs give a bit more forgivness but not much. typing cramp hope this helps