Differential Side Bearing Preload Measurement/Correction

Differential side bearing preload should be measured and adjusted after the following scenarios:

1. Differential case replacement
2. Differential side bearing replacement
3. Axle housing replacement
4. Loss or replacement of side bearing snap rings

If none of these situations apply, refer to RING GEAR BACKLASH MEASUREMENT/CORRECTION 

Fig 1: Spreader Adapters 9226

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1. Install Spreader Adapter Plates 9226 (1).
   Fig 2: Spreader W-129-B Installed

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2. Mount axle housing to Spreader W-129-B (1)
   Fig 3: Measuring Carrier Spread

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3. Set up Dial Indicator Set C-3339-A as shown to measure axle housing spread:
   • Clamp SP-5426 (1)
   • Post SP-5425-B (2)
   • Metric Dial Indicator 9524 (3)
   Fig 4: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader

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4. If differential side bearing cups and snap rings are already removed at this point, skip to Step  8. Otherwise, expand spreader (1) to spread axle housing no more than 0.30 mm (0.012 in.).
   Fig 5: Snap Ring Removal/Installation

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5. Remove both differential side bearing snap rings (1). Tag snap ring to ensure replacement to original position.
   Fig 6: Measuring Side Bearing Snap Ring

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6. Measure and record snap ring (2) thickness for later use.
   Fig 7: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader

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7. Relax spreader (1) to relieve tension on axle housing.
   Fig 8: Snap Ring Removal/Installation

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8. Install right (pinion) side bearing cup and snap ring (1).
   Fig 9: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader

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9. Zero dial indicator.
10. Expand spreader (1) to spread axle housing no more than 0.30 mm (0.012 in.).
    Fig 10: Snap Ring Removal/Installation

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11. Install left (ring gear) side bearing cup and snap ring (1).
    Fig 11: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader

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12. Relax spreader (1) to relieve tension on axle housing.
    Fig 12: Measuring Carrier Spread

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13. Measurement showing on indicator (3) is the axle housing retained spread. Proper differential side bearing preload is achieved with an axle housing retained spread of 0.11-0.17 mm (0.004-0.007 in.).
14. If retained spread is less than 0.11 mm (0.004 in.), increase snap ring thickness at each side in equal increments.
15. If retained spread is greater than 0.17 mm (0.007 in.), decrease snap ring thickness at each side in equal increments.