Rear End Inspection

[ryanf1023]

I took a look at my ring gear, spider gears, and carrier this evening for a visual inspection. I want to figure out the best ones to use.

Photo doesn't show much detail, but here's what I have:

Visual inspection shows no chipping to any teeth. Both carriers had no obvious signs of damage. Anything that I should be cautious of? What should I look for in determining the best yoke (is that what they're called)? How should the gears fit? Are there any bearings or anything else that these ride on?

[DHort]

Look for wear caused by the steel thrust washers in the event the pins did not hold the washers. The interior of the washer will rub on the cage which should then be repaired. Bobs does kind of repair.

[Allan]

The three spider gears are usually OK. Check the spider where the gears run, and where it is held in the two halves of the housing.Wear in the housings where the axles run needs checking, as do the surfaces inside where the axle gear thrusts. After that, make sure the pins which locate the thrust discs on the outside are in place and not worn out.
The whole lot is usually well lubricated, and unless something is obviously amiss, the assembly is quite forgiving of usual wear. It helps to have two or three from which to chose.

Allan from down under.

[speedytinc]

Check wear in both sides of carrier. (where axle gears run). Standard size : 1.812" Gears measure 1.807". Hyatt bearing rollers with tight cages : .500". Axle bearing race areas : 1.062" Areas where grease seals run should be smooth & polished. Key slot crisp enough to hold the key. Threads sharp on axles. No more than -.002" wear

[jab35]

Ryan: The mtfca rear axle guidebook states axle gear hub to carrier bore clearance of .005-.006" as acceptable, .010" and greater not acceptable. Spider gear clearance on the spider shaft arms : 0.005"-.007" acceptable. jb

[Steve Jelf]

I wouldn't do this job without referring to the book. I'm not smart enough to remember everything.

[ryanf1023]

Thanks everyone. I opted for the book. Delaying the inevitable I suppose!