How do you check bearing preload?
Use an inch-pound torque wrench to check the preload. If the preload is too loose then remove the shims so that the bearings will be tighter against the races and increase the preload. If the preload is too tight, then remove the pinion gear and add shims so that the bearings will not be as tight against the races.
Do you have to change the bearings on a differential?
Replacing a differential carrier, changing bearings or a ring and pinion can be a challenging process. Adjusting it to just right for a long life and quiet operation is the most difficult part of the repair. Determine the problem and replace damaged or worn parts. If ring and/or pinion gears are worn they will have to be replaced as a matched set.
How do you set up a new differential?
Compare your readings to a chart and see if re-adjustment is needed. Install your axle shafts, cover and fill with the correct lube to the fill plug hole (just where it starts to come back out) Make sure your axle vent is open, usually located on top of the housing. Road test and verify your repair.
What do I need to set up a shim differential?
If your differential is the shim type you will need to use a case spreader to take the pressure off of the side bearings to remove and install the center carrier assembly. Use a dial indicator when spreading the housing and don’t over spread or the housing will be damaged.
How are rear wheel bearings supposed to work?
Axle Repair Bearing Guide. Certain rear wheel bearings use the axle as an inner race; that is the bearing rollers ride directly on the axle shaft itself. At times, worn or pitted rollers, chipped or damaged bearings can wear a groove into the axle shaft.
Replacing a differential carrier, changing bearings or a ring and pinion can be a challenging process. Adjusting it to just right for a long life and quiet operation is the most difficult part of the repair. Determine the problem and replace damaged or worn parts. If ring and/or pinion gears are worn they will have to be replaced as a matched set.
How do you set up a differential on a car?
Determine side gear bearing preload first, then adjust backlash by adding or removing shims from one side to the other or by adjusting center carrier bearing nuts from one side to the other until the desired backlash is obtained.
How do you change wheel bearings on a car?
To change wheel bearings, start by lifting the wheel up on a jack, unscrewing the lug nuts, and taking the wheel off. Then, remove the brake caliper, the dust cover over the rotor, and the cotter pin and castle nut behind the dust cover. Next, pull the rotor off, remove the old hub, and take apart the hub assembly to access the wheel bearings.
If your differential is the shim type you will need to use a case spreader to take the pressure off of the side bearings to remove and install the center carrier assembly. Use a dial indicator when spreading the housing and don’t over spread or the housing will be damaged.