[1976kjell]

A new 3rd member will soon be mounted on the rear axle because of worn pinion bearings. But the flange (rear end 3rd member yoke) is a short one, approxymately 3inches, while the original is approximately 4 inches. Then the drive shaft has to be pulled one inch against the rear end. Is 1 inch too much movement or is the front yoke long enough. If the shorter flange is used, the snubber (guard shield) over the 3rd member joint, cant be used. This can maybe damage the rear 3rd member join when eventually hitting the body, or is the snubber unnecessary?

The alternative is to take the flange from the old 3rd member to the new. Is this difficult and needs much adjustments?

 

[puttster]

The alternative is to take the flange from the old 3rd member to the new. Is this difficult and needs much adjustments?

I'd like to know that too!

 

[PSIG]

Use the old longer flange (yoke). Remove the nut with a 1-1/6" socket. Put a rod or bar into the u-joint straps to work it off, or use a small puller. Lightly grease the new seal and place the old flange on the new pinion splines. Preferably use a new nut (they come with sealer on the threads) or use sealer on the old threads. Feel how sloppy it is in and out, and resistance to turning (a helper to hold it is nice).

Use an impact gun to drive the nut and flange on, a little at a time. Keep checking for how loose it is. When it has almost no slop left, go carefully! Feel how much force it takes to turn. As soon as you feel the force to turn it increase at all - STOP. You are done. :tup: The specified rotational drag is 4-8 in/lb, which is about what most people can feel as a change in drag.

NEVER use an impact gun to torque pinion bearings and crush sleeve together on initial gear setup, or bearing damage will result. The procedure described here only involves restoring clearance to the previously set-up value. For more detailed information, consult your Ford Service Manual under "pinion seal replacement".

David

 

[63ford406]

Depends on who built the 3rd member. If it was Currie they use a sleeve and shims to set the pinon bearings preload. You can change yokes and not worry about getting the nut too tight. And if you use the old yoke polish the seal area on it before you install.