D70HD Detroit Locker Preload?

[Gunny65]

I am putting in a new Detroit locker with new 4.88 ring and pinion in my D70HD axle. The old carrier is a one peice with 4.10 gears. Since this is all new stuff, how would I determine preload?

If I understand it, I must put the shims in place before I set the race and bearings. If I am wrong, isn't it a bit hard on the race and bearings to pull off then back on then off again, etc?

 

[nvrenuf]

I can't answer the preload question but you are correct about the shim installation. They are between the carrier and bearing so they have to be pressed on and off a few times to set it up. If you've got a good/correct puller it can be down without damaging the bearings.

 

[sweetk30]

its a 60 axle but same rules on dana 70 basicly. http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Gear_Setup/

 

[Gunny65]

Thanks. I will read it also.

I found this Model 70 Maintenance Manual on the Dana site: http://www2.dana.com/pdf/5312-9.PDF

I was hoping to find an easier way to do this but it probably is best to stick with what is sure to work...if done correctly. The manual also provides a worksheet to help set up preloads. Not bad really.

 

[Gunny65]

Pirate says the pinion nut is a 15/16 thin wall socket. The other manual said a 1-15/16" thin wall socket. Then another, Randy's ring and pinion says the nut is 1-5/16". Anyone know which it actually is?

 

[howdiy]

1&5/16"

You set the preload with shims under the bearing toward the spline, its a slip fit bearing

 

[Gunny65]

1-5/16", that is what I figured. It looked closer to 1-1/4" than 2" and and 1" was just a tad too small. Thanks for the help.