Gear Backlash
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 RAM Pickup and 2012 RAM Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Position the dial indicator (1) plunger against a ring gear tooth (2).
- Push and hold ring gear upward while not allowing the pinion gear to rotate.
- Zero dial indicator face to pointer.
- Push and hold ring gear downward while not allowing the pinion gear to rotate. Dial indicator reading should be between 0.1 - 0.15 mm (0.004 - 0.006 in.). If backlash is not within specifications transfer the necessary amount of shim thickness from one side of the differential housing to the other.
- Verify differential case and ring gear runout by measuring ring to pinion gear backlash at eight locations around the ring gear. Readings should not vary more than 0.05 mm (0.002 in.). If readings vary more than specified, the ring gear or the differential case is defective.
- If backlash is not within specifications adjust shims equally on both sides to obtain backlash specification.
After the proper backlash is achieved, perform the Gear Contact Pattern procedure.