Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Adjustments Affecting Tooth Contact
The following 2 adjustments affect the tooth contact pattern:
- Backlash adjustment
- Pinion depth adjustment
The effects of bearing preloads are not readily apparent on hand-loaded tooth contact pattern tests. However, bearing preloads should be within specifications before proceeding with backlash and pinion depth adjustments.
Pinion Depth Adjustment
Adjust the position of the pinion by increasing or decreasing the distance between the pinion head and the centerline of the ring gear. Decreasing the distance moves the pinion closer to the centerline of the ring gear. Increasing the distance moves the pinion farther away from the centerline of the ring gear.
Backlash Adjustment
Adjust the backlash by means of moving the side bearing adjuster sleeves which move the case and ring gear assembly closer to or farther from the pinion. Also use the adjuster sleeves in order to set the side bearing preload.
- If the left side adjuster sleeve is moved in, along with an equal outward movement of the right side adjuster, the backlash will increase.
- If the left side adjuster sleeve is moved out, along with an equal inward movement of the right side adjuster, the backlash will decrease.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.