Topic: Spool install

[amm9130]

I've never done anything like this and I want to install a spool. It doesn't look to hard. I've took a carrier out of a rear end before, just wanna do it right the first time around. What's the best way to do this right?

[2manytoys]

Just like building a stock diff or installing a locker. You have to set it up correctly. Maybe take a look at Zuk's gear installs page. www.gearinstalls.com

[Fiercefirstgen559]

Very simple install. Only backlash and carrier bearing preload to adjust.

[BadnewsBob]

No one has ever become an expert without doing it the first time. Ya gotta start somewhere, Get a book or watch a video or a dozen till you understand the procedure, If you wanna learn that is the best thing to do.  Jump right in and have a go at it otherwise you'll never know.

[amm9130 [OP]]

The bearings are what I'm worried the most about. I don't have a press or know anybody that has one. Whats some way I can get them on the spool correctly without one?
And also the carrier bearing pre-load and back lash. how do I adjust this to be correct?

[BadnewsBob]

Most shops will press the bearings on for a small fee. Setting the lash is where you need to watch a vid or read. That is the most important part.  A spool takes the same bearings a any other carrier.

[Wainiha]

I second ZUK's website.  He has tons of info and R&P setups.

[mkyhmltn]

You can get a 12 ton press from Harbor Freight for around $180 or so. Works good for smaller stuff like differentials. Its a little to short to do axle bearings though.

[2manytoys]

It's more than back lash and bearing pre load. You still have to have a good pattern. Just check out Zuk's site.

Get a press or find one to use. Not impossible without one but, it will suck and you can easily damage bearings beating them on with a hammer and punch.

[Wainiha]

You might consider emailing ZUK.  Link is on his site.  If I was near the west coast I really would consider him for doing my gears.  I'm sure there are plenty of good places, but after reading ALL his setups and talking to him....I'd just feel real comfortable having him do it.  This is what he does. 

[amm9130 [OP]]

Im on the east coast. Thinking about saving money and just welding it now. What do yall think is better/stronger?

[BadnewsBob]

Where ya at in NC?   Welding works if done right but I would rather have a spool or locker if it was me.

The lockers like a Spartan (which I run) or a lockrite are easy to install you just pull the spiders out and put the locker in, Basically.

[BadnewsBob]

http://board.marlincrawler.com/index.php?topic=93393.0

This is in the fab section here.

[Fiercefirstgen559]

It's more than back lash and bearing pre load. You still have to have a good pattern. Just check out Zuk's site.

Get a press or find one to use. Not impossible without one but, it will suck and you can easily damage bearings beating them on with a hammer and punch.

If the backlash doesn't change then the pattern won't either.

[amm9130 [OP]]

Where ya at in NC?
Im in northwestern Nc

[BadnewsBob]

Not to far then. I am in Richmond KY