Differential Side Bearing Preload Measurement/Correction

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

• Differential case replacement
• Differential side bearing replacement
• Axle housing replacement
• Loss or replacement of side bearing snap rings

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

Fig 1: Universal Spreader Adapter Plates & Spreader

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

1. Install Universal Spreader Adapter Plates 10113 (1), and Spreader W-129-B (2). Install a stud into the case in the location shown in illustration. Mount Clamp SP-5426 to the stud, and install Post SP-5425-B from Dial Indicator Set C-3339A into the Clamp SP-5426. Zero Metric Dial Indicator 9524 (3) in the location shown in illustration to measure axle housing spread.
   Fig 2: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
2. If differential side bearing cups and snap rings are removed at this point, skip to Step 6. Otherwise, expand spreader to spread axle housing no more than 0.30 mm (0.012 in.).
   Fig 3: Snap Ring Removal/Installation

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3. Remove both differential side bearing snap rings (1). Tag snap ring to ensure installation in original position.
   Fig 4: Measuring Side Bearing Snap Ring

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4. Measure and record snap ring (2) thickness for later use.
   Fig 5: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
5. Relax spreader (1) to relieve tension on axle housing.
   Fig 6: Snap Ring Removal/Installation

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6. Install right (pinion) side bearing cup and snap ring (1).
   Fig 7: Expanding/Contracting W-129-B Spreader

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7. Zero dial indicator.
8. Expand spreader (1) to spread axle housing no more than 0.30 mm (0.012 in.).
   Fig 8: Snap Ring Removal/Installation

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

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
10. Relax spreader (1) to relieve tension on axle housing.
11. Measurement showing on indicator is the axle housing retained spread. Proper differential side bearing preload is achieved with an axle housing retained spread of 0.18-0.23 mm (0.007-0.009 in.).
12. If retained spread is less than 0.18 mm (0.007 in.), increase snap ring thickness at each side in equal increments.
13. If retained spread is greater than 0.23 mm (0.009 in.), decrease snap ring thickness at each side in equal increments.