TR2/3/3A Lockheed diff setup

[raskas]

Hey Guys
Im at the point where i need to bite the bullet and decide whether or not to rebuild this diff. I have used white lithium grease to get an idea of where the pinion is contacting the C/W and the result is as pictured below. From what ive read its a little to high on the face of the C/W so the pinion needs to be closer to the C/W. Im a bit concerned at the pattern on the pinion but cannot find any info as to what it should look like. So im asking rebuild or leave it alone ?

Cam

 

[carpecursusII]

A good rear end shop can fix that problem. Take it in and ask them. You can fix the pattern with shims under the bearings.

 

[DavidApp]

Hello Cam

You will get a better picture of the contact pattern if you use High Spot Blue. Be careful with this stuff as a little goes a long way.

Here is a link to reading the pattern.
https://www2.dana.com/pdf/5717.PDF

David

 

[raskas]

Hi David
thanks ill give it a try

Cam

 

[TomMull]

Agree with David on the blue. The pattern might give you some indication of the condition but there are many reasons for a bad pattern. If the differential has been quiet, I'd ignore a little unusual pattern. Your ears are a better judge.
If you do have issues, here's a good reference, just don't let Andy talk you out of it:
https://www.macysgarage.com/myweb6/diff-overhaul.htm
Tom

 

[raskas]

Thanks for the reply Tom

Noise wise i cannot be sure as this car has been off the road for 34 years, i will get some blue and try again. It feels good and the backlash measures consistently at .006" so is in spec. nil signs of wear in the crown wheel or pinion.

Cam

 

[DavidApp]

With the blue you need to use as little as possible to get a good result. A Q tip is probable a good way of applying the blue to one gear.

David