It isn't $100 of tools if you know where to shop and spend your money wisely. I've got everything I need to do up to a Dana 70 and have less than $500 into all the special tools needed. Doing it by feel is crap!! Your calibrated right had ain't that good. But knock yourself out and do it by feel.

 

500 bucks for tools you use once isn't really a wise investment. If he did rear-ends on a regular basis, I could see it.....

Check with the local parts stores, someone should have the tools available to rent. Do it once, do it right, don't worry about it again.

 

What kind of tool ,do you use to measure backlash ? I have thought about it all night !

 

Dial gauge, with magnetic base..... Read thru the procedure in the service manual. has pics showing how to check things as well.

 

A dial indicator connected to a magnetic base.

 

JINX! you owe me a Coke.

 

Next time you are in town, I will happily buy you one.

 

Ok guys thanks ! I might get one and use it just so its right !

 

You can download it for free in the FAQ/DIY section.

 

I tried to use a flathead for the side adjusters and it just didn't cut it so I grabbed a piece of 4' rebar and a couple scraps of steel and 5 minutes later I had a handy tool to do the job.

I was going to rent a dial indicator but my neighbor said it was a waste of time(GM Master Tech that works on all the Corvettes at the local dealer.). So we just set it up by his feel and with gear grease. Have 20k on my gears with light towing around 4K and no problems yet.


Rectangle on the end was
1 3/8"
3/4"