Hey guys, I'm currently installing a powertrax locker in an open 3.42 rear I picked up in a junkyard. Everyone in the rear seems to be fine just the thrust washers on each axle side seem thin, but I have no clue how thick or thin they are supposed to be. I you have any info please tell! Thanks!

 

Thats how you set your backlash by using the right shims. There isnt a set guide 4 you, you have to set it up and measure it all..

 

Okay thanks, I did a lil googling and found out most are pretty thin so I think I'll be alright

 

If your talking about the shims that sit on the outside of each carrier bearing, thats not a thickness that you just eyeball. That needs to be an exact thickness depending on what the backlash is like when you put it all together. If not, I can guarantee you that axle won't last long and will make lots of noise. This is one of those times where if you dont know how to properly put it together, your better off paying someone. I'm not trying to sound harsh, but I do this for a living so I'm just trying to save you from making an expensive mistake.

Edit: Now that I re-read your orignal post though, you shouldn't have to mess with them. Unless your installing new bearings, or a new ring and pinion. If the diff, bearings, and gears are all staying the same, and it didnt make noise before, then those get left alone. Just make sure you mark the caps left and right, and top and bottom, so that they go on exactly as they came off. Also put the shims back in the same side they came out of.

 

Are you talking about the thrust washers between the splined spider gears and the case itself? They are not really a wear part and they are very thin. If they are smooth and not gouged up, they are fine

 

That's exactly it! I think I should be good then! Thank you a ton!

 

I totally missed that... Glad someone got ya squared away!

 

The axle gear thrust washers are .030 thick.