Cherokee 8 1/4" Ring Gear

Using hex adjuster, turn each adjuster until bearing free play is eliminated with about .010" (.25 mm) backlash. To ensure accurate adjustment, seat bearings by rotating differential carrier 1/2 turn, back and forth, 5-10 times each time adjusters are moved.
NOTE: Index gears so same teeth are meshed during all backlash measurements. Maintain specified adjuster torque to obtain accurate differential bearing preload.
Mount dial indicator on flange. Position indicator stem against drive side of ring gear. Check backlash every 90 degrees to find point of minimum backlash. Mark each position so backlash readings will be taken with same teeth meshed. Rotate ring gear to point of minimum backlash.
Tighten each adjuster to 10 ft. lbs. (14 N.m). Seat bearings as instep 1). Measure backlash. If necessary, back out right or left adjuster and turn in opposite adjuster until backlash is .003-.004" (.08-.10 mm). Tighten and seat carrier bearings each time adjusters are moved.
Tighten bearing cap bolts to 100 ft. lbs. (136 N.m). Using hex adjuster, tighten right adjuster to 70 ft. lbs. (95 N.m). Seat bearings, and continue to tighten adjuster until torque remains constant at 70 ft. lbs. (95 N.m).
Check backlash again with indicator. If backlash is not .005-.008" (.13-.20 mm), increase torque on right adjuster and seat bearings. Continue until backlash is .005-.008" (.13-.20 mm). Tighten left adjuster to 70 ft. lbs. (95 N.m), and seat bearings. With adjustments completed, install adjuster locks. Make sure lock teeth are engaged in adjuster threads. Tighten lock bolts to specification.
After all adjustments, check gear tooth pattern and adjust if necessary. See GEAR TOOTH CONTACT PATTERNS article in GENERAL INFORMATION.