I was replacing my axle bearings, and when I was putting everything back together, I noticed something that I don't know is normal. When I turn the differential, the carrier bearing races are turning. This doesn't seem normal to me, and I'm wondering what can be done if the races aren't supposed to turn. Can I replace the bearings and races, or am I going to wind up doing an entire rear end job?

 

in that case, you might try some locktite RC609 bearing retaining compound.

 

Would I still have to go through the whole process of setting preload, backlash, etc...?

 

Well, I found a rear end with 3.42's (mine has 3.23's) for $300. This also includes a 200 day warranty with the option to purchase a longer warranty. The only downside is that I'd have to swap rear ends. I have the tools to swap the rears, and I figure that cost-wise, it'd pretty much be a wash, and I get the warranty too. I'm thinking hard about this, plus, it'll give me a good reason to go with Tuner Cat to adjust the speedo, and do some other stuff.