Diff rebuild
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 276
Likes: 2
From: Parkesburg PA
Diff rebuild
I'm getting ready to put my differential back together and have a quick question. I've read a few articles around tightening the pinion nut. Everything I've read has said the nut torquing requires the use of a 0-30 in/lb dial wrench to achieve proper drag on the bearing. I'm having a REALLY tough time finding this gauge. My question is this: is there another way or tool to use? I cant see spending over $150 for a tool online that I'm going to use for literally 10 minutes then never again! Thanks in advance.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 6,422
Likes: 591
From: McHenry Illinois
You could probably fabricate a way to measure it with a fish scale. A 1" lever with 30 lb pull or a 2" lever with up to 15 lb pull, you get the idea. You are measuring the rolling torque, fancy tools make it more convenient, but you can improvise.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 2,632
Likes: 112
From: Great Plains Iowa
I'm getting ready to put my differential back together and have a quick question. I've read a few articles around tightening the pinion nut. Everything I've read has said the nut torquing requires the use of a 0-30 in/lb dial wrench to achieve proper drag on the bearing. I'm having a REALLY tough time finding this gauge. My question is this: is there another way or tool to use? I cant see spending over $150 for a tool online that I'm going to use for literally 10 minutes then never again! Thanks in advance.
You don't need a "dial" gauge; just any "click type" inch pound torque wrench. If the specs call for 18 to 30 set the wrench to 18 and try it. If it doesn't click at 18 but does at 30 then you're in the specs.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 904
Likes: 46
From: Crestline CA
The first few diffs I did I used the dial type wrench but after a few you get a feel for whats right. Here's some free advice so take it for what its worth. You should be able to turn the pinion yoke with one hand but it should take a bit of effort(I know, kinda vague) and you're better off going a bit too tight than a bit too loose.
