bad pinion bearing? (dana 60)

[Fred_M1010]

I've just removed my front diff, to replace it with an E-locker.
Then I noticed some play in the yoke.
It's about 0.004" radial play (sideways) and 0.010" axial play (in and out).

Since I'm not changing the gears, I was hoping not to have to adjust pinion depth...
What do you think, could I just tighten the pinion nut some and be done with it...?

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

What do you think, could I just tighten the pinion nut some and be done with it...?

Nope, it doesn't work like that, the shims between the two bearings that set pinion bearing preload prevent you from tightening up the bearings like that.

The good news is that you probably (99% chance) won't have to adjust pinion depth at all since you're not changing ratios. You may need to adjust the pinion bearing preload shims, but again, probably not (that's probably more like a 90% chance IME).

 

[Fred_M1010]

D**m, I thought they used a crush sleeve(sp?), so I could just crush it some more

 

[Speedo]

If the differential was set up properly something happend to allow the radial movement that you have now. If the bearings have worn enough to allow that kind of movement then it is probable that both bearings have worn and tightening the pinion nut to specs will tighten it up but there will be some movement away from the ring gear as if you had removed some depth shims. Another possibility is that the pinion nut loosened, tighten to specs. In both of those of those instances I would check pattern and backlash. If the backlash and pattern are good I would install a new pinion nut and torque to specification and mark the pinion and the nut so that you can watch to insure that the nut doesn't back off. Something that you need to watch out for is the possible loss of preload shims, it is possible that when the pinion became loose one of the shims could have been destroyed. If, when you tighten the nut to spec, it becomes too tight you will need to reshim the preload.

With all of that said your best bet would be to replace the pinion bearings
while you have everything apart. If the cups haven't spun in the housing you should just replace the bearings and keep the same depth shims and set the preload using the old shims. Check preload, backlash and pattern after completion.

Gus

 

[blazinzuk]

Be glad your 60 doesn't use a crush sleeve.

There are several things that can cause a worn out pinion bearing, the least of which is a heavy long travel front driveshaft.

Its always a good idea to check the pattern

 

[Fred_M1010]

Ok, thanks guys!
I ordered a complete rebuild kit with bearings and shims yesterday.
I realized I would regret it later, if I took a shortcut now