Backlash Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Acura MDX, 2012 Acura MDX, 2011 Acura MDX, and 2010 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the final driven gear and the transfer drive gear from the differential carrier (see DIFFERENTIAL CARRIER, FINAL DRIVEN GEAR, AND TRANSFER DRIVE GEAR REPLACEMENT ).
Install both axles into the differential assembly (A) and place the axles on V-blocks (B).

Fig 1: Measuring Backlash Of Pinion Gears With Dial Indicator
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Measure the backlash of the pinion gears (C) with a dial indicator (D).
Standard: 0.05-0.15 mm (0.0020-0.0059 in)
If the backlash is out of the standard, replace the differential assembly.
Install the final driven gear and the transfer drive gear on the differential carrier (see DIFFERENTIAL CARRIER, FINAL DRIVEN GEAR, AND TRANSFER DRIVE GEAR REPLACEMENT ).