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Evening All,

I'm looking for clarification on the use of shims between the backing plate and the flange of the rear end housing.

Are they being used to shim the backplate to eliminate any excessive pressure on the bearing race?

I realize this is an obscure topic, but I'd like to have a comfort level before I continue.
Regards,

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Not an obscure topic at all, it comes up here regularly, many dozens of times, and has received some very well-written descriptions of the process. The purpose of the shims is to establish the correct axle shaft end play. Search this site on "axle shaft end play" or read the shop manual for particulars, its a very important adjustment.

Thanks Dave,
I did a search as suggested, but do not find the any specific instructions. So, the distance between the flange and the backing plate determines the endplay?

Thanks,

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.

I'll send a wake-up call to Joe (Joe Santana) to mentally review => his experiences.

Steve, => this way please, to find another source.

Gentlemen, Thank you again!
Guscha, that's the link I was looking for..........I've got my homework assignment for this weekend.

Regards,
Steve

That link of mine was right out of the book. Glad it could be of use.

I drove from Portland OR to San Jose CA for my granddaughter's graduation last week. Stopped in Sacramento. Heading back today. Axles still working.

Gentlemen,
Thank you all very much for the input! I was able to complete the rear end today.
Everything worked out great.............On to the next step.

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