I've purchased a Master Install kit for my 8.8 and plan to replace old parts with the one from the kit. I'm doing this mainly because the guys who installed my gears jacked things up and it's a mess in my pumpkin. Shims are out of place and bearings are probably at risk. Anyway, I know all about Backlash, Preload, and other differential settings. I'm making the assumption that since I am not changing gears or doing anything major I don't have to worry about most of that. As long as I replace the shims with new shims of the same thinkness and use the correct install kit backlash, preload, and the like should remain correct. Does anyone have an argument against this?

Thanks

 

If you are going to change anything in the rear I recommend you recheck the pattern and backlash. If you do anything with the pinion you will have to set the preload.
If you are changing shims, bearings and the crush sleeve then things can change inside.
Here is a post of my experience when changing out my rear. I hope it helps you out.
https://www.f150online.com/forums/sh...hreadid=115876
good luck,

WLF

 

I have no problem checking the setup; I have a great how-to video from Richmond. However, I don't know the backlash requirements for my gears and I doubt they're stamped on. I don't even remember the brand. Hmmm, They may have been Genuine Gear 4.10s

 

You shouldn't have to change the backlash just measure the shims and replace. If they are Genuine Ford gears they will be marked with changes such as +1, -1 or 0 for neutral backlash.

What makes you think there is a problem with the orriginal install? Usually the first indication something is wrong is with noise or failure. Gears will not last very long if installed wrong.

 

The shims are way out of wack on both sides of the carrier. Everyone I've talked to thinks there's something wrong.

 

It's hard to make out the pictures but I agree you should not be able to see the shims with the bearing caps in place. They should all be lined up and covered by the caps. Looks like things were too tight and the shims would not fit back in. You may have to remove some from each side to get them to fit. Preload is determined by a tight fit on the carrier bearings but the way yours looks.... hard to tell what the preload would be.
To set the preload, force in the carrier with shims in place as tight as possible without damaging the shims.
I think you are going to have to set this one up. The pinion I hope is ok so don't remove it. Try to get as close as possible with the shims then remove a little from each side equally until they fit. Then check the patten and switch the shims from side to side until you get a good pattern. You may get lucky and get a good pattern on the first try, you may not.
Good luck.

P.S. You should post the name of the installer of those gears so other F150'ers can avoid them.

 

I've discussed this in depth in previous threads and had noted the installer was 4Wheel Parts Wholesalers on Federal BLVD in Colorado. That's what I get for letting professionals touch my baby. I appreciate your take on the situation. Thanks

 

Just trying to help. I didn't see your previous posts and the more often it is brought to the top the more visitors will see.
Good luck in getting your rear in order. It sounds like you are confident you can repair so I am out of here.

Bye...