Side-to-Pinion Gear Backlash (Standard Differentials)

Install two pinion gears with shaft and one side gear. Mount dial indicator to carrier so plunger contacts side gear. Force side gear hard against pinion gears, zero indicator, then force side gear hard against case. With proper shim and thrust washer, backlash should be as specified, and preload of all three gears should not exceed specified value. Repeat procedure on opposite side (with second set of pinions on four pinion type), then retain side gears pressed outward against carrier so axle flange retaining bolts can later be installed.