Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 115

2 - 41 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE B R
Fig. 51 Collapsible
Preload
Spacer
YOKE
J9402-61
Fig. 52 Pinion Yoke Installation
CAUTION: Never loosen pinion gear nut to decrease
pinion gear bearing preload torque and never ex­
ceed specified preload torque. If preload torque is
exceeded a new collapsible spacer must be in­
stalled. The torque sequence will have to be re­
peated.
The specified preload torque should not exceed;
• Model 44: 393 N-m (290 ft. lbs.)
• Model 60: 426 N-m (315 ft. lbs.)
(9) Use Holder 6719 to retain the yoke (Fig. 53).
Slowly tighten the nut in small increments until the
rotating torque is achieved. Measure the preload
torque frequently to avoid over-tightening the
nut.
Fig. 53 Tightening Pinion Nut
(10) Check bearing preload torque with an inch
pound torque wrench (Fig. 54). The torque necessary
to rotate the pinion gear should be;
• Original Bearings: 1 to 3 N-m (10 to 20 in. lbs.).
• New Bearings: 2.26 to 4.52 N-m (20 to 40 in. lbs.).
DIFFERENTIAL SHIM PACI MEASUREMENT AND
ADJUSTMENT
(1) Place Master Differential Bearing D-345 for 44
axle or D-343 for 60 axle on the case hubs.
(2) Place Differential assembly in the housing. As­
semble Differential bearing caps.
(3) Install a pilot stud at the left side of housing.
Attach Dial Indicator to housing. Load the indicator
plunger against the back of the ring gear (Fig. 55).
Ensure ring and pinion gear teeth are tightly
meshed. Zero the indicator.
(4) Insert a small pry bar between the bearing cap
and left side of differential case. Pry the case as far
as possible to right side. Zero the dial indicator
pointer.
(5) Repeat the measurement several times to check
consistency. Record the travel distance.
The measurement above shows shim thick­
ness necessary to eliminate ring gear backlash.
Subtract this thickness from case zero end-play