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Yukon Gear Pinion Depth Shims for Dana 60, Dana 61 and D70-U Differentials
The SK 30291 from Yukon Gear and Axle is a precision pinion depth shim kit engineered for the Dana 60, Dana 61, and D70-U differentials used in a broad range of American trucks, vans, and SUVs from 1961 through 2014. Part number SK 30291 provides the assorted shim thicknesses required to correctly set pinion depth during ring-and-pinion installation or carrier bearing replacement. The SK 30291 covers Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Ford, and Plymouth applications that rely on the Dana 60, Dana 61, or D70-U axle, giving installers the flexibility to set gear mesh precisely without sourcing multiple individual shims. Correct pinion depth directly impacts gear contact pattern, noise levels, and long-term differential durability.
Features and Benefits
- Fits Dana 60, Dana 61, and D70-U differentials in a single kit
- Assorted shim thicknesses for precise pinion depth adjustment
- Covers front and rear Dana 60 axles used in heavy-duty trucks and off-road applications
- Manufactured to Yukon Gear tolerances for accurate gear setup
- Reduces downtime by providing multiple shim selections in one package
- Compatible with both new gear installations and rebuild/replacement jobs
- Spans 1961-2014 model years across major domestic manufacturers
Fitment
| Year | Make | Model | Differential |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1961-2014 | Chevrolet / GMC | C/K 2500, 3500 Trucks | Dana 60 front or rear |
| 1961-2014 | Ford | F-250, F-350, Excursion, Bronco | Dana 60 front or rear |
| 1961-2014 | Dodge | D100-D350, Ram 2500, Ram 3500 | Dana 60 rear, D70-U |
| 1961-1980 | Plymouth | Belvedere, Fury, Satellite | Dana 60 rear |
| Various | Various | Heavy-duty trucks and vans | Dana 61 |
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | SK 30291 |
| UPC | 883584550129 |
| Differential | Dana 60, Dana 61, D70-U |
| Kit Type | Pinion Depth Shims |
| Warranty | Yukon Gear limited warranty |
What's Included
- Assorted pinion depth shims for Dana 60 / Dana 61 / D70-U differential applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What differentials does the SK 30291 fit?
A: The SK 30291 is designed for the Dana 60, Dana 61, and D70-U differentials used in a wide range of domestic heavy-duty trucks and full-size vehicles from 1961 to 2014.
Q: Does SK 30291 work for both front and rear Dana 60 axles?
A: Yes. The SK 30291 covers both front and rear Dana 60 configurations, making it suitable for four-wheel-drive applications with front Dana 60 axles as well as rear installations.
Q: Why does pinion depth matter during a ring-and-pinion install?
A: Correct pinion depth positions the pinion gear so it meshes with the ring gear at the proper contact area. An incorrect setting causes premature wear, differential noise, and reduced gear life.
Q: Is SK 30291 compatible with my Ford Super Duty Dana 60?
A: Yes. The SK 30291 is compatible with Ford F-250 and F-350 Dana 60 axles, covering the Super Duty and earlier application model years.
Q: Can this kit be used with Dodge Ram heavy-duty trucks?
A: Yes. The SK 30291 covers Dodge D-series and Ram 2500/3500 applications that use the Dana 60 rear axle or the D70-U configuration.
Q: Does this product come with a warranty?
A: Yes. Yukon Gear products carry a limited warranty. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, installing warranted Yukon Gear parts does not void your vehicle's factory warranty when correctly installed.
Q: Can I use SK 30291 during a full ring-and-pinion swap?
A: Yes. The SK 30291 is intended for use during ring-and-pinion installation to achieve the correct pinion depth reading specified by the gear set manufacturer.
Q: Is professional installation recommended for pinion depth adjustment?
A: Yes. Accurate pinion depth measurement requires specialized tools including a pinion depth gauge and dial indicator. Professional installation is recommended for proper results.
Installation Instructions
- Remove the differential cover and drain the fluid. Mark the bearing caps before removal.
- Remove the carrier assembly and set aside. Remove the pinion nut, flange, and pinion from the housing.
- Remove the existing pinion depth shim located behind the rear pinion bearing cup.
- Using a pinion depth gauge set and dial indicator, determine the correct shim thickness for the new gear set per the manufacturer's specification card.
- Select the appropriate shim(s) from the SK 30291 kit to achieve the specified reading.
- Install the selected shim(s) behind the rear pinion bearing cup and press the bearing cup into the housing.
- Install the pinion with new bearings and a new crush sleeve or solid spacer as applicable, and set pinion preload per spec.
- Reinstall the carrier with the ring gear, adjust backlash to spec, and verify the tooth contact pattern with marking compound.
- Torque all fasteners to specification, reinstall the cover with fresh sealant or gasket, and fill to the proper fluid level.
- Road-test and check for leaks before returning the vehicle to service.
Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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