Shop wanted $770 just in labor to install 4.11, so I will be doing it myself again. Last time i did it, i didn't have the means to properly set the pinion depth. What is everyone using?

 

There's GOTTA be a cheaper place to do it. I've found many places that typically charge ~$250 for labor only.

 

I agree. The problem is I bought the parts with the intention of doing it myself, but due to time constraints, it would be better to bite the bullet and have someone else do it. Most places will not install part unless you bought it through them, due to profit and warranty of the job performed.

So I ask again, what is everyone using to properly set pinion depth?

 

it all depends, some gear sets have the pinion depth or mounting depth on them and some brands do not

if they have the pinion depth i then use the simple $100 tool you can buy from summit or jegs, if they have the mounting depth you need to measure the pinion head thickness and subtract that from the mounting depth to get the pinion depth

if they do not have the pinion or mounting depth, then i start with the original pinion shim, set the pinion bearing pre-load, install the carrier and set the carrier bearing pre-load and backlash then take a pattern to see if pinion depth is good

 

thank you my fellow cheesehead!

 

thats what i did on the cutlass/chevelle

 

pinion depth = gear paint

backlash = dial indicator