For gear sets that do not have a
checking distance marked on the pinion head like most aftermarket pinions
To use this
tool you need to establish that number. It is a very simple two step
procedure:
1. Measure
the thickness of the pinion head.
(where the shim sits to top where the center is located)
2. Subtract
that dimension from the number listed below for your application.
The answer is
the checking distance number needed. Proceed with procedures 1 through 5.
Clean and remove any
burrs or paint from the top of the pinion head.
Mount the head bearing
on to the pinion shaft and install in the housing without the pinion seal or
crush sleeve. Tighten the pinion nut enough to take up the slack in the
bearings.
Place the pinion
setting tool on top of the pinion head with the slot end of the tool in the
carrier bearing journal. (fig. 3,4,5) The end of the tool will rest against
the end of axle tube surface.
With the tool being
held by your left hand firmly against the top of the pinion head and the
slotted end touching the face of the axle tube, insert the dial caliper with
your right hand into the slot and position the depth rod so it touches the
bottom of the carrier bearing journal. (fig. 6)
Take the measurement
from the dial caliper and subtract it from the dimension printed on the tool.
The answer is the current checking distance of the pinion gear. Add the
appropriate amount of shims to arrive at the number marked on the end of the
pinion gear by the manufacturer.
