Differential Bearing Preload Adjustment

NOTE: True bearing turning torque readings can be obtained only with the geartrain removed from the case.

1. Remove bearing cup and existing shim from clutch bell housing case.
2. Press in new bearing cup into bell housing case (or use a cup that has been ground down on the outer edge for ease of measurement).
3. Press in new bearing cup into gear case side.
4. Oil differential bearings with Mopar(R) type M.S. 9417 Manual Transaxle Fluid. Install differential assembly in transaxle gear case. Install clutch bell housing over gear case. Install and torque case bolts to 29 Nm (21 ft. lbs.).
5. Position transaxle with bell housing facing down on workbench with C-clamps. Position dial indicator.

Fig. 163:

6. Apply a medium load to differential with Tool C-4995 and a T-handle, in the downward direction. Roll differential assembly back and forth a number of times. This will settle the bearings. Zero the dial indicator. To obtain end play readings, apply a medium load in an upward direction while rolling differential assembly back and forth (Fig. 163). Record end play.
7. The shim required for proper bearing preload is the total of end play, plus (constant) preload of 0.18 mm (0.007 inch). Never combine shims to obtain the required preload.
8. Remove case bolts. Remove clutch bell housing differential bearing cup. Install shim(s) selected in Step 7. Then press the bearing cup into clutch bell housing
9. Install clutch bell housing Install and torque case bolts to 26 Nm (19 ft. lbs.).

Fig. 164:

10. Using Special Tool C-4995 and an inch-pound torque wrench, check turning torque of the differential assembly (Fig. 164). The turning torque should be 6 to 12 inch lbs.. If the turning torque is too high, install a 0.05 mm (0.002 inch) thinner shim. If the turning torque is too low, install a 0.05 mm (0.002 inch) thicker shim.
11. Recheck turning torque. Repeat Step 10 until the proper turning torque is obtained.