How do I adjust the side of the carrier bearings after replacing them?

Hi,

There is a special tool that is used to adjust the threaded adjusters. Also, I took a portion of your pic and circled the lock. Is this the part you are referring to? If it is, then that needs to be removed to adjust the bearings and then reinstalled once the adjustment is complete.

Keep in mind, when adjusting the carrier bearing, it correlates directly with the pinion gear. That is where the actual adjustment occurs. The carrier bearings simply move the ring gear assembly left and right. The tool will be inserted from the end of the axle, travel through the axle, and then go into ring gear assembly. Once installed, then the free play has to be adjusted within a specified tolerance.

Now, if you look at the pics below, they explain how the adjustment is done. Take a look through them and let me know if you have questions.

Pic 1 below is from your original pics. The remaining pics are the directions for adjustment. Note: Most of these trucks came with a 9.25 differential. If you have an 8.25", let me know. These directions are for the 9.25".

Take care and let me know if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Hi,

If there is a pinion-bearing issue, you should feel it when turning the pinion shaft. It will have a rough feeling about it. Also, a bad bearing usually causes a leak at the seal and makes a howling noise when moving.

Next, check for excessive end play at the axles. A small amount is normal, but it shouldn't be excessive.

I attached directions for removal and replacement. Let me know if this helps.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Hi,

If the bolt holes don't align, you can turn the pinion shaft in either direction to align.

Let me know if it goes together for you.

Jo

Hi,

Just make sure the fluid is full. Also, if there was a bearing issue, you would have felt it when turning it by hand. Chances are, it is good. Pay attention to evidence of leaks near any of the bearing seals. If there are any, replace the seal and inspect that bearing.

Also, the part you attached the driveshaft to with the four bolts is called the companion flange. It wasn't removed, correct? If it was, the nut will need torques. However, if I recall from your pic, it was still on the differential, so it shouldn't be an issue.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

If you have both wheels off the ground, they will turn in park unless you have a traction lock differential. I don't believe this one is.
Note: The wheels will turn by hand, but the driveshaft won't turn because the transmission is locked in park. Is it possible for you to record what is happening and upload it for me to hear and see?

As far as the clunk you heard, I suspect it was the parking sprag engaging when the driveshaft/rear wheels were turning. It would be like placing the vehicle in park when moving.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

It won't hurt anything. Put it down and see if the vehicle moves for you. I have a feeling everything will be fine.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

Good job. I'm glad it's back together and working for you. By the way, looking at the pic above, you do good work. It looks really good.

Take care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future if you have questions or need help. You are always welcome here.

Joe