Accord LX Coupe L4-2254cc 2.3L SOHC (VTEC) MFI (1998)
8. At normal room temperature, measure the starting torque of the differential assembly by rotating it in both directions with the special tool and a
torque wrench (A).
STANDARD: 1.4 - 2.5 Nm (14 - 26 kgf-cm, 12 - 23 inch lbs.)
9. If the carrier bearing preload is not within the standard, select a thrust shim that will provide the correct preload:
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Compare the bearing preload you got on the first try with the specified preload of 1.4 - 2.5 Nm (114 - 26 kgf-cm, 12 - 23 inch lbs.).
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If the preload you measure was less than specified, subtract it from the specified preload.
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If the preload you measure was more than specified, subtract it from the specified preload.
For example, with a 2.17 mm (0.0854 inch) thrust shim:
(1) Specified: 2.5 Nm (26 kgf-cm, 23 inch lbs.)
Minus, if you got less: 0.6 Nm (6 kgf-cm, 5 inch lbs.)
Equals: 1.9 Nm (20 kgf-cm, 18 inch lbs.) less than spec
(2) If you got more: 3.3 Nm (34 kgf-cm, 30 inch lbs.)
Minus specified preload: 2.5 Nm (26 kgf-cm, 23 inch lbs.)
Equals: 0.8 Nm (8 kgf-cm, 7 inch lbs.) more than spec
NOTE: Each shim size up or down from standard makes about 0.3-0.4 Nm (3-4 kgf-cm, 2.6-3.5 inch lbs.) difference in preload.
In example (1), your preload was 1.9 Nm (20 kgf-cm, 18 inch lbs.) less than standard, so you need a thrust shim five sizes thicker than standard
(try the 2.32 mm (0.0913 inch) thrust shim, and recheck).
In example (2), your preload was 0.8 Nm (8 kgf-cm, 7 inch lbs.) more than standard, so you need a thrust shim two sizes thinner (try the 2.11 mm
(0.0831 inch) thrust shim, and recheck).