Stranger in the Black Sedan
06-19-2007, 08:01 AM
Hi guys, I am to the point in my ring and pinion setup where it is the trial and error assemble/check pattern/disassemble part. I started out using the stock carrier shims, which are the thick iron ones. To get the carrier in, I was able to install 1 carrier shim in the housing, lift the carrier in, and then gently hammer the other cast iron shim in using a dead blow mallet. However I am sure that I am going to need to change out the thick factory carrier shims for lots of thinner shims. Any tips on getting the carrier shims in, without damaging them? I know I need the carrier to tap in, not just slide in, so the carrier bearings have some preload on them (all new bearings). Will I still be able to hammer on the shims to get them in, or will I have to hammer the carrier into the shims? It looks like this part of the install will be a nightmare working by myself under the car, with a big heavy extremely sharp gear over my head.