Front Differential - How Much Slack Is OK? (1 Viewer)

[NMC_EXP]

I have an '85 FJ60. A previous owner changed the front and rear diff gears for a set from an FJ62 (mileage unknown).

It has developed a grinding noise when in 4WD Hi when decelerating on a downhill. With it in 4 Hi and both front wheels off the ground when I rotate one tire it moves 3 to 4 inches before the opposite side moves.

Been a long time since I did this check but it seems to me that is way to much backlash, slack, lost motion or whatever you want to call it.

Question: How much backlash is normal? If it is excessive what causes it?

Also found the front driveshaft, rear u-joint is bad - may be the cause of the noise.

Thanks

Jim

 

[cruisermatt]

Check the dust shield on the front pinion flange they can break from the flange and cause a grinding noise.