Pinion Bearing Preload
NOTE:
Pinion bearing preload is controlled and adjusted by means of a select-thickness spacer sandwiched between the pinion head and tail bearing cones.
- Remove pinion housing bolts (1) and remove pinion housing assembly from axle housing.
- Using a dial-type torque wrench (1), measure pinion housing rotating torque. Rotating torque should be within 130-260 N.m (12-23 in. lbs.).
If rotating torque is below this range, disassemble pinion housing, measure and install a slightly thinner spacer (1), reassemble and reverify. If rotating torque is above this range, disassemble pinion housing, install a slightly thicker spacer, reassemble and reverify rotating torque.
- Using Spanner Wrench (special tool #6958, Wrench, Spanner) (2), remove pinion flange nut.
- Using Puller (special tool #1026, Puller) (1), remove pinion flange.
- Press pinion gear (2) out of housing.
- Remove pinion bearing preload spacer (1).
- Measure spacer (1) and correct per rotating torque measurement.
- Install proper pinion bearing preload spacer (1).
- Install pinion gear/bearing assembly to housing. Using Installer (special tool #L-4507, Installer, Bearing) (1), press pinion tail bearing (2) onto shaft until it bottoms.
- Using Installer (special tool #L-4507, Installer, Bearing) (1), press on pinion flange (2).
- Install the pinion flange nut and tighten to the proper torque specifications. Refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
- Install pinion housing assembly and depth shim to axle assembly.
- Install the pinion housing-to-axle housing bolts (1) and tighten to the proper torque specifications. Refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
