What is the correct pinion bearing preload?
Depending on the style of the assembly, either a crush collar or shims can be used to adjust pinion depth. Once the pinion depth has been set, pinion preload must be applied while rotating the pinion. For used bearings, set preload at 15 in. -lbs.; with new bearings, set preload with 25 in.
How do you check and adjust pinion bearing preload?
Use an inch-pound torque wrench to check the preload. If the preload is too loose then remove the shims so that the bearings will be tighter against the races and increase the preload. If the preload is too tight, then remove the pinion gear and add shims so that the bearings will not be as tight against the races.
What happens if pinion preload was set incorrectly?
If the preload is set too tight the pinion bearings will wipe out, fail, lock up and cause a catastrophe ring and pinion gears. If the preload is set too loose the rear end will whine, the pinion gear will attempt to walk up the ring gear causing abnormal gear wear and eventual fail.
Why is preload needed in a rear axle?
A slight preload bearing setting assures that proper gear tooth contact is maintained between the pinion and ring gear. This minimizes gear wear and extends the tooth life of both gears. Debris in the axle system is reduced when gear wear is minimized.
How do you find the preload on a bearing?
The required preload, which is expressed as a negative distance, requires measuring total axial positive displacement (end play) of the shaft relative to a fixed surface. This is typically done with a dial indicator.
What does pinion preload do?
This spacer is placed between the bearings. Turning the pinion gear nut crushes the spacer to obtain the specified preload. This preload prevents the sideways thrust that moves the pinion gear to the outside edge of the ring gear.
What is pinion gear preload?
Pinion bearing preload is the tension placed on the pinion gear’s tapered bearings. A collapsible spacer is used to obtain the specified amount of pressure or preload. This spacer is placed between the bearings. This preload prevents the sideways thrust that moves the pinion gear to the outside edge of the ring gear.