How do I set preload on 14bolt SF axle

[nsxxtreme]

Hi Guys,

I bought a eaton e-locker for my 14 bolt SF axle. How do I set the preload on the locker bearings? I know how to shim it to get the right pattern on the ring and pinion. But how do I set the preload on these bearing?

 

[jonathon]

Side question, but what e-locker did you get? The H2 one or the supposed 14bsf specific one?

 

[nsxxtreme]

Side question, but what e-locker did you get? The H2 one or the supposed 14bsf specific one?

No Idea I got this one
http://www.4wheelparts.com/Drivetra...t_s=237&t_pt=5589&t_pl=5475&t_pn=EAT19684-010

My guess is its 14b SF specific

 

[loafer]

The side opposite the ring gear has an adjusting nut that you tighten to set preload. You changed carrier, so you will also have to set the backlash using shims on the ring gear side.

 

[nsxxtreme]

The side opposite the ring gear has an adjusting nut that you tighten to set preload. You changed carrier, so you will also have to set the backlash using shims on the ring gear side.

I'm changing the carrier, the ring and pinion, and the bearings. I know how to set everything except the preload on the carrier bearings.

I dont recall seeing a adjusting nut.

 

[loafer]

Does your's look like this?

The adjusting nut is the thing with holes in it next to the right hand bearing cap. The clip w/ two prongs keeps it in from loosening

________

 

[nsxxtreme]

Does your's look like this?


The adjusting nut is the thing with holes in it next to the right hand bearing cap. The clip w/ two prongs keeps it in from loosening

yes mine looks like that. Cool I was wonder what the purpose of that was. Now how do I set it? Meaning how do I know if I have enough preload?

 

[dirtygoat]

I've never messed with one of those, but I'd bet it's like most...

You probably need to leave the bearing caps not torqued, and tighten until the carrier binds... Then back it of, spin it, tighten again and back it off 2-3 holes... Tighten the caps...

From there you start to run a pattern and so on...


I may be wrong, but hey, I'm drinking...

 

[jonathon]

No Idea I got this one
http://www.4wheelparts.com/Drivetra...t_s=237&t_pt=5589&t_pl=5475&t_pn=EAT19684-010

My guess is its 14b SF specific

Yep.. that's it.. the price gives it away.

The one for the H2 is half that.. yet the H2 has a 14bsf in it

I have yet to actually see anyone post the differences...

 

[nsxxtreme]

The one for the H2 is half that.. yet the H2 has a 14bsf in it

What do you mean half that? When I search fo eaton e-locker H2 I come up with
http://www.4x4rockshop.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=9733 similiar priced.

I've never messed with one of those, but I'd bet it's like most...

You probably need to leave the bearing caps not torqued, and tighten until the carrier binds... Then back it of, spin it, tighten again and back it off 2-3 holes... Tighten the caps...

From there you start to run a pattern and so on...

I may be wrong, but hey, I'm drinking...

Cool hopefully someone else can post to confirm.

 

[nsxxtreme]

Can anyone confirm the preload set procedure for the carrier bearings outlined by dirty goat? How do I know I have enough preload?

 

[blazer74]

I've got that info from a gm service manual for the preload but can't upload.
Measure pinion preload during install of pinion.
Start with bearing caps finger tight.
Tighten adjuster firmly to seat everything, rotate assy several times to seat
bearings. Loosen adjuster until free of bearing. Tighten adjuster again until it contacts diff bearing, then tighten additional 3 slots for new bearing or 2 slots for old bearings.
Install adjuster lock and bolt, Torque bearing caps and lock bolt.
Measure total assy rotating preload. Should be ( 30-50 inch lbs for new bearings or 25-45 for old bearings. Subtract pinion preload from total preload and multiply by the axle ratio. Diff case preload should be 15-35 in lbs.
If not correct add or subtract shims until correct. Recheck backlash and adjust if needed.

I've never done this, but this is what the 1998 14bolt 9.5 gm axle manual says.
Good luck.

 

[dirtygoat]

I was a little buzzed last night when I posted...

I'd say I was on the right track...