I removed the carrier/ring gear assembly from my 70 with 3.07s preparing for some sort of locking device. It came out alot easier than I expected, and I was surprised that I didn't find any shims on the sides. I am not sure of the mileage on this unit, odometer said 35,000 so I figured 135k considering the overall condition of the truck, but I guess it could be 235k. Anywho, i have a bad bearing on one side of the carrier so those will be replaced. With new bearings and races will that affect the setup? Will I need a housing spreader to get it back in? Is it unusual to find no shims whatsoever?

 

The shims are usually between the bearing and the carrier. Did you press the bearings off?

 

I never used a spreader in my entire career. And I did a lot of 60's in drag cars. I have seen more axle housings ruined by spreaders than not. I could always do it faster without. It just takes the bearing preload out of the equation. You just have to make sure everything is good and square as you put it together. And for goodness sake use NOTHING but TIMKEN bearings. If you do, the chances are good you won't have to change any shims, if all you are replacing is bearings. just my 2 pennies.

 

Been without internet access for a few days but, no I haven't removed the old bearings yet. I thought the shims would be between the outside of the bearing races and the housing itself (maybe I was thinking of 12 bolt chevy?). I was just confused as to how the backlash was set if there were no shims. I will remove the bearings and go from there. Thanks for the help thus far.

 

timken bearings, not koyo...

 

10-4 on the timkens!!