pinion bearing preload revisited.

[rockyracoon]

since setting up my rear I have about 500 miles on the car.I used all new bearings.I initially had like 25 inch lbs preload on the pinion bearings,the other day I decided to recheck the preload and it has gone down to like 12 inch lbs,
what im wondering is are the bearings now considered used when it comes to the preload specs, or would it be ok to bring the preload back to around 20 inch lbs.

 

[89SaleenGT]

since setting up my rear I have about 500 miles on the car.I used all new bearings.I initially had like 25 inch lbs preload on the pinion bearings,the other day I decided to recheck the preload and it has gone down to like 12 inch lbs,
what im wondering is are the bearings now considered used when it comes to the preload specs, or would it be ok to bring the preload back to around 20 inch lbs.

Bearings are now used. Think of it this way, would you buy bearings with 500mi from someone as new? I hope not.

Normally, if the diff is not making any noise and everything was set correctly in the first place, you should not have to go in and redo things.

To answer your question:
Yes. You can go back in and tighten the preload a little. Just don't overshoot the 20 inlb spec. There is nothing wrong with double checking your work.

Good Luck