2004 Ford Explorer

GEAR TOOTH CONTACT PATTERNS - GENERAL INFORMATION -2004 Ford Exp.

NOTE: This is GENERAL information. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or individual vehicle configuration. For model-specific information see appropriate articles where available.
INSPECTION
Wipe lubricant from internal parts. Rotate gears and inspect for wear or damage. Mount dial indicator to housing and check backlash at several points around ring gear. Backlash must be within specification at all points. If no defects are found, check gear tooth pattern contact.
NOTE: Drive pattern should be well centered on ring gear teeth. Coast pattern should be centered, but may be slightly toward toe of ring gear teeth.

NOTE: This is GENERAL information. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or individual vehicle configuration. For model-specific information see appropriate articles where available.
GEAR TOOTH CONTACT PATTERN
1. Paint ring gear teeth with marking compound. Wrap cloth or rope around drive pinion flange to act as brake. Rotate gear until clear contact pattern is obtained.
2. Contact pattern will indicate whether correct pinion bearing mounting shim has been installed and if drive gear backlash has been set properly. Backlash between drive gear pinion must be maintained within specified limits until correct tooth pattern is obtained.