Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 117

2 - 42 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE
BR
SPECIAL TOOL
Fig. 57 Spread Differential Housing
(6) Install the bearing caps at their original loca­
tions. Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 108 N-m (80
ft. lbs.) torque.
BACKLASH AND CONTACT PATTERN ANALYSIS
(1) Rotate assembly several revolutions to seat
bearings. Measure backlash at three equally spaced
locations around the ring gear with a dial indicator
(Fig. 58).
| FOR MORE BACKLASH •—
DECREASE SHIM INCREASE SHIM
• ^ — — FOR LESS BACKLASH — — — 1
J9302-28
Fig. 59 Backlash Shim Adjustment
The ring gear teeth contact patterns will show if
the pinion gear depth shim(s) have the correct thick­
ness. It will also show if the ring gear backlash has
been adjusted correctly. The backlash must be main­
tained within the specified limits until the correct
tooth contact patterns are obtained.
(2) Apply a thin coat of hydrated ferric oxide to
the drive and coast side of the ring gear.
(3) Rotate the ring gear several revolutions in both
directions while a load is being applied. Insert a pry
bar between the differential housing and the case
flange. This action will produce distinct contact pat­
terns on both the drive side and coast side of the ring
gear teeth.
(4) Note patterns in compound. Refer to (Fig. 60)
for interpretation of contact patterns and adjust ac­
cordingly.
Fig. 58 Ring Gear Backlash Measurement
The ring gear backlash must be within 0.005 -
0.008 inch (0.12 - 0.20 mm). It cannot vary more
than 0.002 inch (0.05 mm) between the points
checked.
If backlash must be adjusted, transfer shims from
one side of carrier to the other side. Adjust the back­
lash accordingly (Fig. 59). DO NOT INCEEASE
THE TOTAL SHIM PACK THICKNESS, EXCES­
SIVE BEARING PRELOAD AND DAMAGE MAY
OCCUR.
If the mesh and backlash steps have been followed
in the procedures above, good gear teeth contact pat­
terns should exist.