Traction-Lok(R) Differential Operation Check

Traction-Lok(R) Differential Operation Check
A Traction-Lok(R) differential can be checked for correct operation without removing it from the rear axle housing.

WARNING: A vehicle equipped with a Traction-Lok(R) differential will always have both wheels driving. If only one wheel is raised off the floor and the axle is driven by the engine, the wheel on the floor could drive the vehicle off the stand or jack. Be sure both rear wheels are off the floor.

With the engine off, raise only one rear wheel. Install the special tool on the wheel nuts.





Use a torque wrench with a capacity of at least 271 Nm (200 ft. lbs). to rotate the axle shaft. Be sure that the transmission is in NEUTRAL, and that one rear wheel is on the floor while the other rear wheel is raised off the floor. The breakaway torque required to start rotation must be at least 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs). The initial breakaway torque may be higher than the continuous turning torque.





The axle shaft must turn with even pressure throughout the check without slipping or binding. If the torque reading is less than specified, check the differential case.

Traction-Lok(R) Differential Check Road Test
1. Place one wheel on a dry surface and the other wheel on ice, mud or snow.
2. Gradually open the throttle to obtain maximum traction prior to break away. The ability to move the vehicle demonstrates correct operation of a Traction-Lok(R) axle assembly.
3. When starting with one wheel on an excessively slippery surface, a slight application of the parking brake may be necessary to help energize the Traction-Lok(R) feature of the differential. Release the brake when traction is established. Use light throttle on starting to provide maximum traction.
4. If, with unequal traction, both wheels slip, the limited slip axle has done all it can possibly do.
5. In extreme cases of differences in traction, the wheel with the least traction may spin after the Traction-Lok(R) has transferred as much torque as possible to the non-slipping wheel.

Companion Flange Runout Check

CAUTION: Pinion bearing preload must be reset if the pinion nut has been loosened or removed for pinion flange reindexing or installation.

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to Maintenance/Service and Repair.
2. Remove the driveshaft.
3. Check the pinion flange for damage.
4. Position the Companion Flange Runout Gauge on the pinion flange.








5. Position the special tools on the pinion flange.





6. Align the holes on the clamp plate with the holes in the pinion flange and install the bolts. Snug the bolts evenly.





7. Position the special tool as shown. Turn the Companion Flange Runout Gauge, and locate and mark the high spot on the pinion flange with yellow paint.





If the pinion flange runout exceeds 0.25 mm (0.010 inch), remove the pinion flange, reindex the pinion flange 1/2 turn on the pinion, and reinstall it.
8. Check the runout again. If necessary, rotate the pinion flange until an acceptable runout is obtained. If the pinion flange runout is still more than 0.25 mm (0.010 inch), install a new pinion flange.





9. If excessive runout is still evident after installing a new pinion flange, install a new ring and pinion. Repeat the above checks until the runout is within specifications.
10. Install the driveshaft.

Tooth Contact Pattern Check - Gearset
1. To check the gear tooth contact, paint the gear teeth with the special marking compound. A mixture that is too wet will run and smear; a mixture that is too dry cannot be pressed out from between the teeth.
2. Use a box wrench on the ring gear bolts as a lever to rotate the ring gear several complete revolutions in both directions or until a clear tooth contact pattern is obtained.
3. Certain types of gear tooth contact patterns on the ring gear indicate incorrect adjustment. Incorrect adjustment can be corrected by readjusting the ring gear or the pinion.

Contact Pattern Location
In general, desirable ring gear tooth patterns must have these characteristics:
^ drive pattern on the drive side ring gear well centered on the tooth
^ coast pattern on the coast side ring gear well centered on the tooth
^ clearance between the pattern and the top of the tooth
^ no hard lines where the pressure is high

Acceptable ring gear tooth patterns for all axles.





Correct backlash with a thinner pinion position shim required.





Correct backlash with a thicker pinion position shim required.





Correct pinion position shim that requires a decrease in backlash.





Correct pinion position shim that requires an increase in backlash.