Pinion Lash

So whats the final verdict, i know it is serious and needs to be fixed ASAP, but how long, really, could i drive with it like that?

If you drive it too long it would be more cost effective to buy another rear end.

How long is too long?

I can't tell you for sure. I'm not an expert. I've helped rebuild a few rear ends with my uncle, and he basically told me if the lash is bad, to park it or get a new rearend. Its more expensive to have it torn apart to fix it. And don
t attempt to do it on your own, unless you really know what you're doing.

i believe they take the rearend gears put blueing on them to check and make sure they are meshing 100% properly....
as for getting a new rearend in his situation its outta the question cause it is a dakota and the rear axle was shortened on it

Frame Dragger.... send me a e-mail.. its Trevor From prize.. i was talking to you at vanfest. i was discussing your situation with nate..
lyinlow@hotmail.com

Well then fix it. But the lash is measured in degrees. From where the gears touch going forward, to where they touch going back. Essentially, the slop. But I wouldnt drive on it long.

how many miles on the truck? excessive back lash is most likely due to worn carrier brgs. you can tighten the lash by removing the axls and there are two big nuts which press on both sides of the carrier, there is a special tool that will allow you ttighten or loosen these nuts which will move the carrier either closer or further away from the pinion . you need between 8 and 12 thousands of an inch of back lash.at first excessive back lash will only cause your rear gear to roar while driving, if it gets too bad you could bust a tooth or 4 off of the ring gear or pinon or both,

i agree Seth..

Frame Dragger id get in touch with a local driveline place.. they should be able to adjust it all up for ya..

BUT i think he is talking bout some drive shaft noise not nessiarly(sp) backlash from the pinon to ring gear.its the side to side measuere ment of the ring gear to the front and back measure ment of the pinion gear. you want it to be like within like .0010 for good meshing and wear.