Gear install advice.

Hi, I have been working on a new front axle for my 3b. I re-tubed a ford high pinion 44 to passenger drop, wagoneer width. I am now installing gears and could use some opinions on pattern since this is my first gear install. I moved the pinion depth a few times but this was as good as it got as far as being centered root to the top land. If I increased backlash it looked a little better toe to heal but was out of spec. I know with used gears it can be tough to get a normal pattern. Any advice is welcome. Thanks!

Used gears, dana 44 high pinion front axle, milled gears (as opposed to hobbed), backlash 0.008".

 

I am no expert, as I have only set up 2 sets of gears, but to me it looks fine. You say its front axle? It should be more than fine for a long time. Maybe someone else will chime in who has more experience though.

 

Thanks for the input! I was feeling pretty good about it but it is always nice to have some other eyes on it.

 

I concur. Looks Great! I have done several now and will be hopefully be doing just one last one with my Dana 44. I hope it runs up that well.

 

I'd like to see a little more oval on the pattern but with used gears that's probably as good as it's going to get. Plus being a front axle it's not as critical as a rear. I think it will run just fine.

 

Yes, the shape is strange, not the typical ovalish, but that stayed the same no matter where I moved it.
Thanks everyone for the input. I think I am going to call it good (enough) and finish the install.

 

Update!

Got it all together and took it with me on an Adventure Guides Calico Campout. Not too much time for jeeping but I did drive around a bit and everything is working great. Drove around in front wheel drive up to about 30 mph and no whining or anything bad. Took it up to 60 with the front hubs locked an no bad sounds. ARB works, the solenoid valve leaks a bit when unlocked but they are sending me a new one. Great customer service at ARB. Only other problem was a little contact between the yoke and the exhaust. Switching to a high pinion moved the yoke/driveshaft up a few inches and although there was about an inch of clearance at full bump when static, under load in reverse it must twist up a bit:



Thanks for the reassurance on the gear install, pretty excited that it worked out!