Checking Tooth Patterns
NOTE:
Drive pattern should be well centered on ring gear teeth. Coast pattern should be centered but may be slightly toward toe of ring gear teeth.
- Paint ring gear teeth with a marking compound, then wrap a cloth or rope around drive pinion flange to act as a brake. Rotate ring gear until a clear tooth pattern is obtained.
- Gear tooth contact pattern will disclose whether correct pinion bearing mounting shim has been installed and drive gear backlash set properly.
- Backlash between drive gear and pinion must be maintained within specified limits until correct tooth pattern is obtained.