GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 2000 🢒 Yukon - 4WD 🢒 Driveline/Axle 🢒 Rear Drive Axle 🢒 Backlash Adjustment

Checking Backlash

Tools Required

J 39704 Dial Indicator


    Object Number: 6946 Size: SH
  1. Mount a J 39704 with a magnetic base to the axle housing.

    2. Object Number: 7558 Size: SH
  2. Place the indicator tip of the J 39704 on the heel end (1) of the ring gear tooth.

    3. Important: The measurement must not vary more than 0.05 mm (0.002 in) between the points checked.

  3. Check the backlash at three equally spaced points.

    4. Important: The reduction in the shim pack on one side must be equal to the increase in the shim pack on the other side.

  4. If the backlash needs adjustment, remove the differential case from the housing.
  5. If the backlash is correct, change the preload on each side by an equal amount.
  6. Make a final gear pattern check. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection .

Backlash Adjustment

Less Than 0.13 mm

(0.005 inch)

0.13-0.23 mm

(0.005-0.009 inch)

Greater Than 0.23 mm

(0.009 inch)

Move shims from the ring gear side to the side opposite of the ring gear

No change

Move shims from the side opposite of the ring to the ring gear side.