Backlash Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Honda Odyssey, 2012 Honda Odyssey, and 2011 Honda Odyssey. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: To prevent damage to the inboard joint, always use soft jaws or equivalent materials between the inboard joint and the bench vise.

Install the driveshaft and the right side driveshaft into the differential assembly.
Secure the driveshaft inboard joint (A) in a bench vise (B) with soft jaws (C).

Fig 1: Measuring Backlash Of Final Driven Gear Using Dial Indicator
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Place the intermediate shaft (D) on a V-block (E), then hold the intermediate shaft using locking pliers (F).
Measure the backlash of the final driven gear (G) using a dial indicator (H).
Standard: 1.4-2.0 mm (0.055-0.079 in)
- If the backlash is within the standard, go to step 5.
- If the backlash is out of the standard, replace the differential assembly.
Remove the driveshaft inboard joint from the bench vise.
Remove the driveshaft and the intermediate shaft from the differential assembly.