Driveline System
Driveline System
Component Tests
Traction-Lok(R) Differential Operation Check
A Traction-Lok(R) differential can be checked for correct operation without removing it from the rear axle housing.
WARNING: Vehicle may have multiple drive wheels. Do not use engine to power the driveline unless all drive wheels are elevated off the ground. Drive wheels in contact with ground could cause unexpected vehicle movement. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.
Raise only one rear wheel. Install the Differential Clutch Gauge on the wheel nuts.
Use a torque wrench with a capacity of at least 271 Nm (200 lb-ft) to rotate the axle shaft. Be sure that the transmission is in NEUTRAL, and that one rear wheel is on the floor while the other rear wheel is raised off the floor. The breakaway torque required to start rotation must be at least 27 Nm (20 lb-ft). The initial breakaway torque may be higher than the continuous turning torque.
The axle shaft must turn with even pressure throughout the check without slipping or binding. If the torque reading is less than specified, check the differential case. Refer to Differential Assembly &/or Axle Shaft Assembly or Differential Assembly &/or Axle Shaft Assembly.
Traction-Lok(R) Differential Check Road Test
1. Place one wheel on a dry surface and the other wheel on ice, mud or snow.
2. Gradually open the throttle to obtain maximum traction prior to break away. The ability to move the vehicle demonstrates correct operation of a Traction-Lok(R) rear axle assembly.
3. When starting with one wheel on an excessively slippery surface, a slight application of the parking brake may be necessary to help energize the Traction-Lok(R) feature of the differential. Release the brake when traction is established. Use light throttle on starting to provide maximum traction.
4. If, with unequal traction, both wheels slip, the limited slip rear axle has done all it can possibly do.
5. In extreme cases of differences in traction, the wheel with the least traction may spin after the Traction-Lok(R) has transferred as much torque as possible to the non-slipping wheel.
Pinion Flange Runout Check - Circular
NOTICE: Pinion bearing preload must be reset if the pinion nut has been loosened or removed for pinion flange reindexing or replacement.
1. Remove the driveshaft. Refer to Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints.
2. Check the pinion flange for damage.
3. Position the Drive Pinion Flange Runout Gauge and Driveshaft Clamp Plate on the pinion flange.
4. Align the holes on the Clamp Plate with the holes in the pinion flange and install the bolts. Snug the bolts evenly.
5. Position the Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture and Drive Pinion Flange Runout Gauge as shown. Turn the runout gauge, and locate and mark the high spot on the pinion flange with yellow paint.
If the flange runout exceeds 0.25 mm (0.010 in), remove the pinion flange, reindex the flange one-half turn on the pinion and reinstall it. Refer to Differential Assembly &/or Axle Shaft Assembly, Differential Assembly &/or Axle Shaft Assembly or Differential Assembly for the flange removal and installation procedures.
6. Check the runout again. If necessary, rotate the flange until an acceptable runout is obtained. If the flange runout is still more than 0.25 mm (0.010 in), install a new pinion flange.
7. If excessive runout is still evident after replacement of the pinion flange, install a new ring and pinion. Repeat the above checks until the runout is within specifications.
8. Install the driveshaft. Refer to Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints.