Question about checking preload

[Bryan062087]

I want to recheck the preload of the rear output shaft bearing in my transfer case.

I just finished rebuilding the transfer case today and drove for a bout 10-15 miles after.

When measuring preload, would I still go by the the in-pound range for new bearings which is 13-21 inch pounds? Or should I go by the other used/broken in bearing numbers which are significantly lower- think like 6 inch pounds, can't remember exactly.

The FSM says to check the preload when the case is dry. Does that mean no oil on the output shaft bearing race and no oil in the transfer case? I checked the preload once when the case was dry but coated the bearing race with gear oil. I got somewhere less than 25 inch pounds. Then I checked the preload again after I had filled and drained the case (forgot a seal...) and had completely different measurement... something like 5 inch pounds.

Also, can anyone recommend a good dial inch pound torque for doing this?

Realized the torque wrench I bought at napa blows and I'm not sure if I got the preload right.

Thanks.

 

[lehiguy]

A torque wrench is not what you need for setting bearing preload. You need something that will give you a reading while you're turning the shaft. New bearings will require something more at the upper end of the torque range. Used bearings toward the bottom.

 

[Spike Strip]

You want this kind of an IN/LB wrench

Either 0-30 or 0-75 in-lbs

Or, if you wanna spend more money: there's the snap on torqometer. I think you can get the beam-type for $35 ?

Either way, should be dry and new bearing requires new bearing spex.

 

[Bryan062087]

Thanks.

 

[hward1]

i am doing this now where do you use this thanks

 

[hward1]

You want this kind of an IN/LB wrench

Either 0-30 or 0-75 in-lbs

Or, if you wanna spend more money: there's the snap on torqometer. I think you can get the beam-type for $35 ?

Either way, should be dry and new bearing requires new bearing spex.

i am doing this now where and when do you use this - thanks

 

[Lost]

the preload is light, no need for a fancy instrument. just make sure the output spins freely by hand(put tcase in neutral). double check there is no freeplay on the output shaft(tight bearing)