Diff question.

[Sixpack Dak]

I need to rebuild the 8 1/4" rear end in my Dakota and I was wondering about shims. I know that there is only one shim in the whole rear and that is for the pinion, but since I am only going to be replacing the bearings do I need to purchase a shim kit? I have priced out the kit from the MP catalog and it's going to cost me $120 which is money I really don't want to spend if I don't need to. In theory, if I'm just doing a bearing replacement will I need to change the shim out for a different thickness one?

[John Kunkel]

Simply replacing the bearings won't require a shim change but you will need a new crush sleeve.

[Sixpack Dak]

Originally posted by John Kunkel
Simply replacing the bearings won't require a shim change but you will need a new crush sleeve.

Already ordered, along with a new pinion nut and yoke washer.

Now hopefully doing the rebuild will go as easy as the FSM makes it look. I just have to finish my yoke holding tool and 'big allen key' tool to adjust the carrier bearing preload.