Backlash Adjustment - GMC chevrolet camaro 2000 Service Manual

4-42 Rear Drive Axle
J 8001
J 39446
164245
Driveline/Axle
9. In order to ensure an even reading, rotate the
differential case while using the feeler gauge. (
• The weight of the differential case against the
rear axle housing causes the original light
drag. The differential bearing preload causes
the additional drag.
• Start with a thin feeler gauge. This provides a
sense of feel that. is necessary in order to
recognize the beginning of the preload
and obtain zero clearance.
• Work the differential case in, out, and to the
left in order to insert the feeler gauge.
10. Remove the following components from the rear
axle housing:
• The left side differential bearing cap
• The left side bearing shim
11 . With no pre load on. the differential bearings, add
the following measurements in order to obtain the
size of the total shim pack: ·
• The feeler gauge reading measured in Step 7.
• The thickness of the bearing shims that
were installed in Step 6.
12. Select two bearing shims of approximately equal
size. The total thickness of the two shims must be
equal to the value obtained in Step 9 ..
When installing the differential case into the rear
axle housing, install the bearing shims between
the following components:
• Each differential bearing race
• Each service bearing spacer
Add the additional preload after you install the ·
differential case.
13. When the drive pinion gear is in position, install
the ring gear. Refer to Rear Axle - Assemble.
Backlash Adjustment
Tools Required
J 8001 Dial Indicator Set
1. Remove the rear axle housing cover. Refer to
Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket
Replacement.
2. Rotate the differential case (1) several times in
order to se.at the bearings.
3. Mount the J 8001.
4. Use a small button on the indicator stem in order
to make contact with the near heel end of
the tooth.
5. Set the J 8001 so that the following conditions
are met:
• The stem is in line with the gear rotation
• The stem is perpendicular to the tooth a.hgle
6. Measure the backlash at three or four points
around the ring gear (3). Hold the drive pinion
gear stationary when checking backlash.