Backlash Adjustment Procedure

^ Tools Required:
- J 3289-20 Holding Fixture Base
- J 3289-21 Holding Fixture
- J 37769 Differential Holding Fixture Adapters
- J 37760 Spanner Wrench
- J 8001 Dial Indicator Set





1. Install J 8001 to the differential carrier with the dial indicator plunger against a ring gear tooth.
2. While holding the pinion gear stationary, move the ring gear back and forth as far as it will travel without turning the pinion gear.





3. Observe J 8001 while moving the ring gear back and forth as described in Step 2. Differential backlash should be within 0.013 to 0.018 mm (0.005 to 0.007 inch). If differential backlash is above specification, loosen the left side bearing adjuster approximately 1/4 turn and tighten the right side bearing adjuster approximately 1/4 turn using J 37760. This will move the ring gear closer to the pinion gear causing a tighter mesh and less backlash. If differential backlash is below specification, loosen the right side bearing adjuster approximately 1/4 turn and tighten the left side bearing adjuster approximately 1/4 turn using J 37760. This will move the ring gear away from the pinion gear causing a looser mesh and more backlash. Use this procedure until the most accurate differential backlash is obtained.

Important: In order to preserve differential side bearing preload, any time a side bearing adjuster is loosened, the other adjuster MUST be tightened the same amount. The last motion of this adjustment must be in a tightening direction.

- Tighten differential side bearing cap bolts to 60 Nm (44 ft. lbs.).
4. Install both side bearing lock plates; secure with two bolts.
- Tighten both side bearing lock plate bolts to 12 Nm (106 inch lbs.).