Pinion bearing preload

[Hemidog]

I tightened down the pinion nut until I've got 20-30 inch pounds of bearing preload like the FSM says for new bearings.

This feels like ALOT of preload, what would it take for the bearings to fail from too much preload?

Someone give me peace of mind 

[terrible one]

I followed the manual as well when I built my 8 3/4 and ended up with about 28 inch lbs. of preload without the seal. That was definitely on the high side and it seemed really tight to me but my shop instructor told me that the 20-30 inch pounds was a pretty normal figure and that it felt good. I have driven it and it feels great, doesn't leak, doesn't wine . . . I say you're good to go!

[Hemidog]

Thanks TO, man I'm I tired of taking the pinion in and out!

Checked the preloads, backlash and ring pattern yesterday, and are almost ready for reassembly (just some painting left).

This experience has given me alot more insight on differentials, and more tools I'll probably never use again  

[terrible one]

Man I know the feeling! I was lucky to have the facilities at the school to use and probably wouldn't have done it otherwise. You're right, lots of special tools. Especially a good press for the axle bearings and pinion bearings. Other than that though, it is pretty simple but was so TEDIOUS! Mine went together and came apart like 20 times literally! The big mistake I made was when it came to the pinion bearing. I enlarged the old one so that it would just slip on and I could set the pinion depth without having to press the bearing on and off of the pinion. Well I would get the depth on spec and put it together and it was marking HORRIBLY! Finally I realized it was absolutely STUPID to use my old pinion bearing for set up because it was all worn out! I ended up buying another new pinion bearing to enlarge and use as my "test." Did the same thing with it, got the shimming right, then pressed on the new one and bam! Perfect marks! That still didn't keep me from crossing my fingers the first time I had it out though!