Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 140

3 - 20 BEAR SUSPENSION AND AXLE
B R
(16) Install the Belleville washer. The convex side
of the washer must face outward. Install the pinion
nut.
(17) Retain pinion yoke with Holder 6719. Initially
tighten the drive pinion gear shaft nut enough to re­
move the bearing end play. While tightening, rotate
the pinion shaft to ensure the bearing rollers are cor­
rectly seated.
(18) Tighten the pinion nut to (Fig. 24) 285 N-m
(210 ft. lbs.) torque (minimum).
DIFFERENTIAL
Fig. 24 Tightening Pinion Gear Nut
(19) Remove the tools from the shaft. Rotate the
pinion several complete revolutions (both directions)
to additionally seat the bearing rollers.
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.
(20) Measure the pinion bearing preload torque by
rotating pinion shaft with a Newton-meter or an
inch-pound torque wrench. The correct bearing pre­
load torque is 2-4 N-m (20-30 in. lbs.). This torque
value is with replacement bearings and pinion nut
tightened to a minimum of 285 N-m (210 ft. lbs.)
torque (Fig. 25)
When using original pinion rear bearing and
a replacement front bearing. The correct pre­
load torque is 1 N-m (10 in. lbs.) plus the torque
measured and recorded during disassembly.
The bearing preload torque should be con­
stant during a complete revolution of the drive
Fig. 25 Bearing Preload Torque Measurement
pinion gear shaft. If preload torque varies
while rotating the shaft, there is an internal
binding that must be corrected before assem­
bly.
(21) If specified torque is not obtained, tighten the
nut in small increments until preload torque is ob­
tained.
The differential will be unacceptable for use
if the final nut torque is less than 285 N-m (210
ft. lbs.) torque. If preload torque is not within
the specified range this is also unacceptable.
DIFFERENTIAL CASE INSTALLATION
(1) Apply a coating of hypoid gear lubricant to the
differential bearings, bearing cups and threaded ad­
justers. A dab of grease can be used to keep the ad­
justers in position. Carefully position the assembled
differential case in the housing.
(2) Observe the reference marks and install the
differential bearing caps at their original locations
(Fig. 26).
Fig. 26 Bearing Caps & Bolts