Pinion and Ring Gear

Certain rear axle and driveline trouble symptoms are also common to the engine, transmission, wheel bearing, tires and other parts of the vehicle. For this reason, ensure that the cause of the trouble is in the rear axle before adjusting, servicing or replacing any of the parts.

Two separate adjustments affect pinion and ring gear tooth contact. They are pinion location and backlash.

Individual differences in matching the differential housing and the pinion bearings require the use of shims to locate the pinion for correct contact with the ring gear. Refer to Section 05-02A for shim selection procedures for the respective axle sizes.