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Add or subtract that number etched on the pinion and you are able to set the pinion depth into the differential EXACTLY within. On each gearset there is a setting number etched into the pinion and ring gear. This is your current pinion depth measurement. This tool quickly clamps to the differential bearing cap surface and measures the depth from the axle centerline down to the face of the pinion. This kit comes complete with instructions and adaptors to set up nearly any type of typical automotive ring and pinion configuration. Included inside the hard shelled foam cushioned protective storage case is a dial indicator, mount, adjustable arm, depth extension pins and adaptor sleeves.
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Other tools performing similar tasks as this can cost up to $500! Get better results faster and with less effort and eliminate the guess work. Typically called a "pinion depth gauge" this precision tool set speeds up ring and pinion set up by up to 5 times faster. To see how setting backlash works check out the accompanying video.Effective, Real world, Race & Street Proven Parts & Accessories
PINION DEPTH GAUGE FREE
Rock the carrier back and forth until little to no free play is evident. When adjusting the backlash, a rule of thumb is 10 thousandths of carrier shim adjustment will result in around 7 thou of backlash adjustment. If the backlash is too wide, adjust the carrier toward the pinion. If the backlash is too tight, move the carrier away from the pinion by adjusting the carrier shim. You’ll want to do this in three separate locations on the ring gear to check for runout. Gently rock the carrier back and forth to measure your backlash. With the carrier assembly installed, attach your dial indicator with the plunger at a 90-degree angle from the face of the ring gear teeth.
PINION DEPTH GAUGE INSTALL
Always install and tighten the right side first. Once fully seated, install and tighten down the carrier pads. Then install the left-hand shims and your carrier should be in place. Start with the right-hand side to prevent tooth binding with the pinion and drive each shim completely into place. MEASURING PINION DEPTH 1) Carefully remove any sharp edges or burrs from the carrier bearing housing and caps to avoid any inaccuracy or marring of the hubs. Add some oil to the outside of the shims to allow for easier installation. Your Pinion Depth Checker is now set and calibrated for a depth of exactly 3.375 (Or 1.900' for the Ford 9 or 2.500 for the intermediate differentials). Make sure they’re clean and measure them in three places to ensure a proper fitment. It’s always a good practice to start the process with your factory carrier shims. Loose tolerances between the gears can cause binding under acceleration and deceleration and lead to noise, overheating, and ultimately gear and/or bearing failure. An abundance of play can become a factor on vehicles that are heavy or rigs that tow or haul hefty loads. Ring and pinion backlash refers to the amount of play between the gears. Once you have installed and set the proper pinion gear depth with either a pinion depth gauge or by the pattern revealed when using a gear marking compound, it’s time to address backlash.
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