Excursion 4WD V8-5.4L SOHC VIN L (2001)
29. CAUTION: Match the mating letters as noted during disassembly.
Install the bearing caps, aligning the letters with those on the differential housing. Tighten the bolts to specification.
30. Using the special tools, measure the differential ring gear and pinion backlash at three equally spaced points.
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The backlash tolerance is 0.13 - 0.203 mm (0.005 - 0.008 inch) and cannot vary more than 0.05 mm (0.002 inch) between points checked. A
backlash variation of more than 0.05 mm (0.002 inch) indicates gear/case runout.
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Move the differential ring gear toward the pinion to correct high backlash.
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Move the differential ring gear away from the pinion to correct low backlash.
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Moving a specified amount of differential bearing shims from one side of the differential to the other makes these corrections.
31. Confirm the total preload.
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Using a Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench, check the torque to rotate the pinion. The reading must be higher than the initial reading (taken
without the differential case installed) by the amount shown, with new bearings installed as recommended.
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If the total preload is too high, remove an equal amount of differential bearing shims from each differential case hub. If the total preload is too
low, add an equal amount of differential bearing shims to each differential case hub.
32. Carry out the Tooth Contact Pattern Check to verify the final pinion position is correct.
33. Install the axle shafts.
34. CAUTION: Clean both flat surfaces (differential housing and differential housing cover) with a suitable solvent to remove all traces of oil film.
CAUTION: Install the differential housing cover within 15 minutes of applying the silicone, or it will be necessary to remove and reapply new
sealant.
NOTE: The differential housing cover requires a silicone rubber sealer material, rather than a gasket.
Apply a continuous bead of sealant of the specified thickness to the differential housing cover.
