A LOT of backlash in the side gears??

[Xcessiv]

I opened my differential because of a backlash problem especially in 3rd gear and when launching. The 4.10 gear backlash is not so bad, so is the pinion gear.

On the other hand, the side gears are loose as he||! The "pin" holding them is pretty much worn and the gears themselves show alot of backlash.

What can cause this? My differential clutches need to be changed and I made about 10 runs on ET Streets before noticing it. Durain these 10 runs, only 1 wheel spun when heating the slicks.

Did anybody ever have this problem and will changing the clutck packs + side gears solve everything? Are the side gears very expensive?

Thanks in advance for you help.
Best regards,
Yan

 

[Little Red Zuk]

Is the backlash in the side gears on the splines for the axle, or the side gear to the spider gear?

If it's a Track-Lock, a lot of times it's a matter of just throwing a set of clutches and maybe some Track-Lock shims in. Clutches are cheap and easy, the additional shims are cheap too, but figuring out the size you need can be a bit more time consuming.

FYI, I shimmed the snot out of my T/L, made it extra tight for great hookup, but it only lasted 6 months (In a Ranger)

The Track-Lock in my GT is coming out in favor of a True-Trac.

 

[Xcessiv]

Is the backlash in the side gears on the splines for the axle, or the side gear to the spider gear?

To be honest, I don't know. They're just not rotating properly and are not tight enough.

If it's a Track-Lock, a lot of times it's a matter of just throwing a set of clutches and maybe some Track-Lock shims in.

So changing worn clutches would solve the backlash problem? With the proper instructions and low to medium knowledge, would I be able to change them by myself?

 

[Little Red Zuk]

Changing clutches *may* solve the backlash problem.

Low to medium diff knowledge...Without knowing your technical ability and toolbox, I would probably recommend you run it to a shop that does diff work. Blowed up diff parts due to improper assembly gets expensive.