Service manual

Groundsmaster 3280−D/3320Page 8 − 28Drive Axles
20.Assemble new differential bearing cups onto differ-
ential bearing cones. Seat differential assembly with
drive gear on proper side of carrier into carrier bearing
cradles.
NOTE: This application requires that the ring gear teeth
face toward the spur gear cover.
21.The bearing cradles are designed to apply a slight
preload to the bearings. It is important to push both of the
bearing assemblies simultaneously into their saddles.
Install the bearing caps into their original position as
marked during disassembly. Tighten the cap screws to
a torque from 30 to 45 ft-lb (41 to 61 N−m) (Fig. 52).
Figure 52
22.Using a dial indicator, check the ring gear backlash
in three equally spaced points. Ring gear backlash
should be .003 to .007 in. (.076 to .178 mm) and must
not vary more than .002 in. (.05 mm) between points
checked (Fig. 53).
If the backlash is not in this range, move the shims which
are located beneath the differential bearings, from one
side to the other until the correct backlash is attained.
23.Check ring to pinion gear engagement (see Ring and
Pinion Gear Engagement in this chapter).
Figure 53
24.Apply silicone sealant between the front and rear
axle housings and install the eight (8) housing cap
screws. Tighten the cap screws to a torque from 18 to
23 ft-lb (24 to 31 N−m) (Fig. 54).
25.Install the right and left-hand axle assemblies (See
Front Axle Shafts and Bearings Assembly in this sec-
tion).
Figure 54