My Auburn took a crap. I would Like to swap in a New T Lok or Detroit Locker differential. The Pinion is not being removed.
Since I'm not changing the gears, then I should be able to re-use the same ring gear shims to get Myself close to proper backlash. I should not have to re set the pinion depth.......Correct?
89 Notch: 85 1/2 SVO
In an ideal world yes. But I'd check the pattern and backlash before the swap. Then set the backlash as close as you can to match, and recheck pattern. If it looks good, you're home free!... If not, you'll have to reset the depth. I think you stand a good chance of it being ok. Good luck!
'78 Zephyr Z7
Reason I asked was I do not have the patience or depth guage tools to do the set-up on the pinion. The Auburn and 4.10 gears were set up by a pro. The Car has not really been thrashed on Yet, so Your right. I may be in luck. Thanks for Your advice.
89 Notch: 85 1/2 SVO
You should be fine as far as pinion depth and gear engagement goes.
However you will need to set the diff bearing pre-load (how much the two tapered roller cups are pushing against the roller bearings on the differential carrier housing thingie - the part that holds the diff and ring gear) and also set the gear backlash.
First thing is a bit more difficult while the second is very easy if you have a dial idicator and mag holder.
It's a good idea to have a shim kit.
I'm just getting advice and looking ahead.......worst case scenario.
Before I get to far ahead of Myself. I did some research on the Auburn. I may be able to solve the one wheel tire spin with Just a gear lube change. I may have used synthetic lube, which is a no-no due to the cone clutch design. The synthetic causes clutch slipppage. I can't remember 5 years ago.
After further research I discovered where other People that made that mistake and ended up with the same symptoms. It was fixed buy flushing and going to the proper lube.
Course I won't know till I pull the cover and fluid. Could have also broke the preload assembly and springs. Car has barely 5000 all street driven miles........Cross My fingers and grab some wrenches.
89 Notch: 85 1/2 SVO
Hope i'm wrong but I wouldn't be suprised if the Auburn is bad. I have broken alot of them even with less miles.
Also I agree check the pattern and backlash before you pull it and as long as the pattern is in the middle and shows a good D and the backlash is between .008"-.012" set it back to where it was with the new carrier. If it's a little loose then it's o.k. but if it's real loose .016"+ then you need to set it correctly and recheck the pattern. I've done well over 1000 8.8 gear swaps alot of those were fixing what other "pro's" did. You would be suprised what leaves a shop.
The pinion depth can be set without a depth gauge, It just takes longer to get the depth and pattern right. A good general starting point for the pinion shim for a 8.8 is .026". BUT the bearing brand will make a difference. Timken bearings seem to be real good about tolerances. Others are hit and miss.
Good luck. If you get it apart and have any questions fell free to ask away..
Timken bearings seem to be real good about tolerances
Will be looking Forward. And ditto on the Timken. He happens to be My boss for the last 16 years. Timken for Years has been O.E. in most ford vehicles gear train and wheel axles. Would not think of using anything else. Plus I get them free.
89 Notch: 85 1/2 SVO
