Differential Adjustments

[Jake]

I'm getting some pretty bad slop in my rear differential and i'm wondering how to get rid of it before it breaks. Is there a way to adjust the lash in the ring and pinion?

Also, what can i do to make my LSD work better? Usually i get both wheels spinning when i'm playing, but usually not when i need them both.

[Jake]

[Dave]

Bump for Jake.

[Betaracer]

Need to remove the cover and check the lash.

If it needs adjustment, you need to shuffle the shims like setting up new gears. Google will be your best friend for finding info on "How to Setup Gears"

Chances are something isn't quite right, as gears just don't develop play. As you have Limited Slip, the housing bolts might have loosened or broken.

Best thing is to get the required amount of gear oil and friction modifier, some RTV sealant and a drain pan. Then open the cover and check inside. If it looks good, you have the material to close it back up and fill with fluid. If it looks nasty, you can begin the repairs.

[Jake]

Its got 151k miles on it, and its towed a decent amount and done quite a few burnouts. I can see some of the gear wearing off causing play. I've never set up a set of gears, ill have to search that.

[Turbostang500]

"Resetting" a set of gears can give you a lot more noise even if you get them dead on. If there is wear, you might not want to change the tooth contact and get an unworn part of the tooth to start touching. I would also check for bearing play.

Oh and rebuilt the clutch packs.

[Jake]

I just wanna get the slop out because i can feel it when i let off the pedal then push it down again, there is a clunk, you can hear it too. I'm afraid with me sled pulling a decent bit this summer its gonna grenade.

[Turbostang500]

I would do what betaracer suggested then. Need to check the backlash.

Have you made sure it isnt a u-joint or a bearing in the rear end?

[Jake]

I figured it was the lash, i just have never tore into anything like that and i don't wanna screw it up. I haven't really checked much of anything, i did lube up the slip joint a few weeks ago, all the ujoints, while old, felt tight.

[Turbostang500]

Another thing you can do to kinda get an idea of how loose it is without pulling the cover, put the truck in neutral, chock the wheels, then slide under and see how much rotational play there is in the driveshaft. I don't have a number as far as what is bad or anything. Just kinda give ya an idea what might be loose.
Don't forget, there is a pinion shaft, gears, and side gears that can have play in them also. Even the axleshafts, if they have play, can add to what you are feeling.