Re: 1940 Rear Axle Shim

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2019/6/26 21:47:46

Not exactly. A 0.005" shim will not necessarily result in 0.005" end play, but shimming is the method to arrive at the correct end play. On later rear axles (w/thrust blocks and single outer bearing, you can set the end play at either side unless a very large amount of shimming is needed (see shop manual for particulars). For the older type of rear with dual facing tapered bearings on each axle, you must adjust each side independently, usually by shimming behind the inner bearing race.

I'm sure someone will lead you to a prior post with the specifics for your car. You probably want 0.004" to 0.007" for the total end play for the pair of axles as a single assembly. That is, force both axles as a pair to one side, then the movement as you push the pair to the opposite side should be within the range specified.