Dakota 2WD V6-239 3.9L (1987)
21. Retain pinion yoke with Wrench C-3281. Initially tighten the drive pinion gear shaft nut enough to remove the bearing end play. While tightening,
rotate the pinion shaft to ensure the bearing rollers are correctly seated.
22. Tighten the pinion nut to 285 N.m (210 ft. lbs.) torque (minimum).
23. Remove the tools from the shaft. Rotate the pinion several complete revolutions (both directions) to additionally seat the bearing rollers.
Caution: Never loosen the pinion gear nut to decrease the pinion gear bearing preload torque. If the specified preload torque is exceeded, a
replacement collapsible spacer must be installed. The torque sequence will have to be repeated.
24. Measure the pinion bearing preload torque by rotating pinion shaft with a Newton-meter or an inch-pound torque wrench. The correct bearing
preload torque is 1-2 N.m (10-20 in.lbs.) for 7 1/ 4-inch and 8 1/4-inch axles. This torque value is with replacement bearings and pinion nut
tightened with a minimum of 285 N.m (210 ft.lbs.) torque.
Note: When using original pinion rear bearing and a replacement front bearing. The correct preload torque is 1 N.m (10 in.lbs.) torque in addition to
the torque measured and recorded during disassembly. The bearing preload torque should be constant during a complete revolution of the drive pinion
gear shaft. If the preload torque varies during rotation of the shaft, there is an internal binding that must be corrected before final assembly.
25. If the specified torque is not obtained with 285 N.m (210 ft.lbs.) torque, continue tightening the nut in small increments until the recorded bearing
preload torque is obtained.
Note: The differential will be unacceptable for use if the final nut torque is less than 285 N.m (210 ft.lbs.) of torque. If the preload torque is not
within the specified range this is also unacceptable.
