Tacoma 4WD L4-164.4 2693cc 2.7L DOHC (3RZ-FE) (1996)
e. Place a dial indicator on the top of the adjusting nut on the ring gear side.
f.
Adjust the side bearing for zero preload by tightening the other adjusting nut until the pointer on the indicator begins to move.
g. Torque the adjusting nut 1 - 1.5 notches from the zero preload position.
h. Using a dial indicator, adjust the ring gear backlash until it is within specification.
Backlash: 0.13 - 0.18 mm (0.0051 - 0.0071 inch)
HINT: The backlash is adjusted by turning the left and right adjusting nuts equal amounts. For example, loosen the nut on the left side one
notch and torque the nut on the right side one notch.
i.
Torque the bearing cap bolts.
Torque to 78 Nm (58 ft. lbs.)
j.
Recheck the ring gear backlash.
Backlash: 0.13 - 0.18 mm (0.0051 - 0.0071 inch)
k. Using a torque wrench, measure the preload with the teeth of the drive pinion and ring gear in contact.
Total preload (starting):
Drive pinion preload plus 0.4 - 0.6 Nm (3.5 - 5.2 inch lbs.)