Contact Pattern Location

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford RV Cutaway, 2003 Ford Econoline, 2003 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

In general, desirable ring gear tooth patterns must have the following characteristics:

Drive pattern on the drive side ring gear well centered on the tooth.
Coast pattern on the coast side ring gear well centered on the tooth.
Clearance between the pattern and the top of the tooth.
No hard lines where the pressure is high.

Fig 1: Locating Contact Pattern

G03461462

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Acceptable ring gear tooth patterns for all axles.

Fig 2: Locating Ring Gear Tooth Patterns For All Axles

G03461463

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Correct backlash with a thinner pinion position shim required.

Fig 3: Locating Backlash With A Thinner Pinion Position Shim

G03461464

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Correct backlash with a thicker pinion position shim required.

Fig 4: Locating Backlash With A Thicker Pinion Position Shim

G03461465

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Correct pinion position shim that requires a decrease in backlash.

Fig 5: Locating Pinion Position Shim Decrease In Backlash

G03461466

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Correct pinion position shim that requires an increase in backlash.