Is this pinion as bad as I think it is?

[TerryMason]

I've been having a whine from my jeep on the highway. When on the gas it would scream when I got up to 50+. I had originally thought it was my transmission, but no, it's the Ford 8.8 rear end. Pulling the rear driveshaft and driving around and it's whisper quiet (well .. a TJ whisper).

So, I begin poking around and see this:

I'm thinking that I need new gears (ring and pinion), and to learn how to install them.

Assuming that's the case, am I doing anything dumb by trying to just tighten the pinion nut a bit? Maybe the crush sleeve became worn and a bit more pressure will pull the pinion back in. I changed the fluid about a week ago, and didn't see much glitter - it's got a limited slip, so there was some filings that I assumed were clutch material.

 

[superj]

What is the amount you are allowed for backlash?

I am not sure but i think the in and out play (end play?) Looks excessive. If you cam get the nut to tighten anymorr, and it eliminates that in and out, maybe it will also eliminate the whine

 

[TerryMason]

I'm trying to think it through while watching all the videos I can on youtube. My guess is that to set the backlash I need to pull the carrier, as having the carrier / axles / tires all in place would make getting a reading impossible. To answer your question, I believe it is 0.008 to 0.012. I've ordered a drive beam torque wrench and will play around with it.