Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 161

B R
REAR SUSPENSION AND AXLE 3 - 41
(16) Install case in the housing. Ensure the differ­
ential bearings are fully seated. Remove the
spreader.
(17) Observe the assembly reference marks and po­
sition the bearing caps at their original locations
(Fig. 47). Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 95-122 N-m
(70-90 ft. lbs.) torque.
Fig. 47 Differential Bearing Cap Reference Letters
(18) Rotate the assembly several revolutions to
seat bearings. Measure backlash at three equally
spaced locations with a dial indicator (Fig. 48).
The ring gear backlash must be within 0.18 -
0.23 mm (0.005 - 0.009 inch). It cannot vary
more than 0.05 mm (0.002 inch) between t h e
points checked.
(19) Excessive backlash is corrected by moving the
ring gear teeth closer to the pinion gear teeth. Insuf­
ficient backlash is corrected by moving the ring gear
away from the pinion gear. Backlash correction is ac­
complished by transferring shims from one side to
the other.
If the mesh and backlash steps have been followed
in the procedures above, good gear teeth contact pat­
terns should exist.
Fig. 48 Ring Gear Backlash Measurement
RING GEAR TEETH CONTACT PATTERN
ANALYSIS
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
teeth contact patterns are obtained.
(1) Apply a thin coat of hydrated ferric oxide, to
the drive and coast side of ring gear teeth.
(2) Rotate the ring gear one complete revolution 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.
(3) Note patterns in compound. Refer to (Fig. 49)
for interpretation of contact patterns and adjust ac­
cordingly.
(4) Install the axle shafts. Refer to Axle Shaft In­
stallation within this group.
(5) Install the housing cover. Refill the differential
with lubricant.
(6) Install the RWAL/ABS brake speed sensor and
cover onto the axle housing. Tighten the sensor to 24
N-m (18 ft. lbs.) torque.