Spicer Ring and Pinion Tooth Contact Pattern Information - Manual

1
Spicer ®
Drive Axles
P/N: SHAIS168B
Ring and Pinion Tooth Contact Pattern Information
Affected Models: All Dana Drive Axle Models
Dana drive axles require adjustment of the ring gear and pinion tooth contact at overhaul or anytime the axle has been
disassembled. Most axles require the same distinctive pattern, described in our service publications.
After differential preload and gear backlash adjustments are complete, check the tooth contact pattern and adjust if
necessary. Tooth contact patterns are a function of the relative positions of the ring gear and the pinion. An improper
pattern will require a relocation of either or both. Always adjust pinion position first, if necessary, then the ring gear
position. Always check backlash when done.
New Gearing
Paint ring gear with marking compound and roll the gear to
obtain a contact pattern as shown in the photograph. The
length of the pattern in a unloaded condition is
approximately one-half to two-thirds of the ring gear tooth
in most models and ratios.
Pattern should range from just clear of the toe end to about
3/8” off the toe end. The pattern should be evenly centered
between tooth top land and root.
Used Gearing
Used gearing may not display the round, even contact
pattern found in new gear sets. The gear may have a
“pocket” at the heel end of pattern. The more “use” a gear
has had, the more dominate characteristic of the pattern.
Adjust used gearing so as to display the same contact
pattern observed before disassembly. A correct pattern is up
slightly off the toe and centers evenly along the face width
between the top land and the root. Otherwise, the length
and shape of the pattern are highly variable and are
considered acceptable as long as there is some pattern on
toe end of the tooth.
New Gearing
Used Gearing