Build Currie 9-Inch Axle

Backlash is checked with a dial indicator. A measurement of 0.010 inchis considered optimum. This allows for gear growth that comes with heat.You would be amazed at how hot a differential gets just cruising downthe road.

Next, we check the tooth-mesh pattern. This measurement determines howthe gears mesh, and what the wear patterns will be. The ring gear ispainted with white grease over a few teeth, which will help determinemesh.

Next, the differential is spun at the pinion with a drill, while thetechnician loads the gear assembly. This loads the ring-and- pinion,which establishes a pattern in the white grease. Adjustments are made tothe backlash and spacing to get the pattern right.

When the technician is content with the wear pattern, he will finalizeall adjustments and lock the retainers. These locks are then installedonto the side-bearing cap to keep the retainers in place.

This is the assembled center section. The 9-Plus differential issuperior to both the gray-iron and nodular-iron Ford cases, with thickerwebbing and heavier reinforcement.

Silicone sealer is applied to the 9-inch axlehousing.

Currie 9-Plus differential has been lowered into the new Currie housing.We're ready to torque the lock nuts.

With the differential in place, we're going to address the axle flangeswhere new seals have been installed. Drum brake backing plates areinstalled.

A new bearing retainer is installed over the axle prior to bearinginstallation.

Axle bearings are pressed onto the axleshafts.

With the new Currie 21/2-inch wide drum brakes installed, we're readyfor the axleshafts. This is an easy task. Four 5/16-inch fasteners tiethe bearing retainers to the brake backing plates and flanges. When thebrake drums are installed, the axle assembly is complete. We'll have tomake sure to tell our buddy to use friction modifier along with the gearlube because we have a Limited-Slip differential with clutches to thinkabout.