Total Backlash Check

FRONT AXLE TOTAL BACKLASH CHECK
1. If the vehicle vibrates and produces a booming sound due to an imbalance in the drive system, measure the front axle total backlash by the following procedure to see if the differential carrier assembly requires removal.
1. Place the transfer control lever in the "4H" position and drive the vehicle until the 4WD indicator changes from flashing to illuminated.
2. Hold the wheels and place the transfer control lever in the "2H" position.





3. Turn the companion flange clockwise until all play is eliminated, and then align the mating mark on the dust cover with the mating mark on the differential carrier.





4. Turn the companion flange counterclockwise until all play is eliminated and measure the distance through which the mating marks moved.
Limit: 11 mm (0.4 inch)
2. If the backlash exceeds the limit, remove the differential carrier assembly and final drive gear. Then check the differential gear meshing condition and the looseness of the driveshaft or inner shaft splines.