Ring Gear Backlash Measurement/Correction

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Differential Ring Gear Backlash should be measured and adjusted after the following scenarios:

Ring and pinion gear replacement
Pinion head bearing replacement
Pinion depth (shim) adjustment
Differential case replacement
Differential side bearing replacement
Axle housing replacement

Fig 1: Measuring Ring Gear Backlash
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

NOTE: If Spreader W-129-B is installed, make sure tension on axle housing is relieved.
Set up Dial Indicator Set C-3339-A as shown in Fig 1 to measure ring gear backlash:
- Clamp SP-5426 (1)
- Post SP-5425-B (2)
- Metric Dial Indicator 9524 (3)
Rotate ring gear one direction to take up clearance to pinion. Verify indicator tip is in contact with ring gear and zero indicator. Rotate ring gear back and forth and record measurement. Ring gear backlash should be 0.10-0.16 mm (0.004-0.006 in.). Verify back lash measurement in four (4) positions.

Fig 2: Backlash Shim Correction
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
If backlash measurement is less than 0.10 mm (0.004 in.), it is necessary to decrease the snap ring thickness on the ring gear (left) side, and increase the thickness on the pinion (right) side.
If backlash measurement is greater than 0.16 mm (0.006 in.), it is necessary to increase the snap ring thickness on the ring gear (right) side, and decrease the thickness on the pinion (left) side.