So, I going to ditch the G80 because it only wants to lock when the drivers tire spins and stays open when the passenger tire spins. So... I'm planning on keeping my current ring and pinion and I want to get a Detriot TT.

I have been doing some research about doing this work myself and I have a few questions... What are you guys doing about carrier bearing preload? Many sites say it just needs to be tight enough that the diff has to be installed with a dead blow hammer. My helm manual states to shim .008" of preload in it.

I have a dial indicator to check backlash and I am not too concerned about performing this task, I'm just concerned with getting the preload right.

What are you guys doing to preload the carrier? Also, where is a good place to get a TT, carrier bearings, and shims from? I seen Randy's mentioned here before, are they good?

Jeff

 

I would go with the get it tight enough to beat in with a dead blow hammer.... I just went to an assesment for work and to get the sidr bearing preload where the service manual says it should be you would need to beat it in there with a jackhammer!!!!! you should be ok with using your factory shims, especially if you are using your ring and pinion in the truck....

 

Good deal Jeff, practice on yours and then you can install mine

 

No problem Tdrumm... I'm willing to mess yours up too...

Grumpy, That was my thought, .008" of preload seems to be a ton without the aid of a case spreader. So it seems that as long as "it's tight, It's right"... would that be correct?

Jeff

 

Ok, I just ordered my detriot TT and parts from Randy's. I got the TT, Bearings, shim kit, new bolts, and shipping for around $500. Not bad, I did see one unit sell for a little cheaper, but the customer service was very good at Randy's and they answered all of my questions. So we'll see how the install goes this weekend.

Jeff

 

Good deal, let me know how you like it.

 

So does anyone else have comments on bearing preload?

 

As snug as you can get it. You wont be able to tap in the shims if its too tight. Sometimes I use a split 2x4 pice of wood to hammer in the shims, it all depends on how the install goes.

As long as thecarrier bearing preload is tight with no slop, its just fine. pinion preload is more important.

peace
Hog