Spicer Drive Axles Service Manual Single Axles 2-Speed & Double Reduction - Manual (Page 28)

Adjust Ring Gear Tooth Contact
After differential bearing preload and gear
backlash adjustment is complete, check
gear tooth contact pattern and adjust if
necessary.
CORRECT TOOTH CONTACT PATTERN
(NEW GEARING)
Paint ring gear teeth with marking
compound and roll the gear to obtain a
contact pattern as shown in the drawings.
The length of the pattern in an unloaded
condition is approximately one-half to two-
thirds of the ring gear tooth in most models
and ratios.
CORRECT TOOTH CONTACT PATTERN
(USED GEARING)
Used gearing may not display the square,
even contact pattern found in new gear
sets. The gear may have a "pocket" at heel
end of contact pattern. The more use a gear
has had, the more the pocket becomes the
dominant characteristic of the pattern.
Adjust used gear sets to display the same
contact pattern observed before dis-
assembly. A correct pattern is up slightly off
the toe and centers evenly along the face
width between the top land and root.
Otherwise, the length and shape of the
pattern are highly variable and are con-
sidered acceptable as long as there is some
pattern on toe end of the tooth.
NOTE:
Tooth contact patterns are a function of the relative positions of the ring gear
and pinion. An improper pattern will require relocation of either or both. Always adjust
pinion position first, if necessary, then ring gear position. Recheck backlash when done.
28
Section
3
ADJUSTMENT
Drive Axle
Overhaul