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Yukon Gear Pinion Preload Shims for Dana 60, Dana 61 and Dana 70-U Differentials
The SK 34801 from Yukon Gear and Axle is a comprehensive pinion preload shim kit for the Dana 60, Dana 61, and Dana 70-U differentials. Part number SK 34801 includes 66 shims ranging from 0.005in to 0.030in thickness, a shim guide, and a storage pouch, giving the technician everything needed to set pinion bearing preload accurately across a wide range of solid-collar differential housings. The SK 34801 is used wherever a solid spacer is employed in place of a crush sleeve, allowing precise preload control by stacking shims to achieve the specified pinion drag torque. This SK 34801 kit is ideal for gear installations and rebuilds on Dana 60 front and rear axles, Dana 61 axles, and Dana 70-U full-floating axle applications.
Features and Benefits
- Covers Dana 60, Dana 61, and Dana 70-U differentials
- Includes 66 shims from 0.005in to 0.030in for precise preload setting
- Shim guide included to aid in initial thickness selection
- Storage pouch keeps shims organized and prevents loss during installation
- Works with solid spacer setups for repeatable, adjustable pinion preload
- Manufactured to Yukon Gear tolerances for consistent, accurate results
- Covers both front and rear Dana 60 applications
Fitment
| Year | Make | Model | Differential |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1961-2014 | Chevrolet / GMC | C/K 2500, C/K 3500 Trucks | Dana 60 front or rear |
| 1961-2014 | Ford | F-250, F-350, Bronco, Excursion | Dana 60 front or rear |
| 1961-2002 | Dodge | D-series, Ram 2500, Ram 3500 | Dana 60 / Dana 70-U rear |
| Various | Various | Medium-duty trucks and vans | Dana 61 |
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | SK 34801 |
| UPC | 883584550150 |
| Differential | Dana 60, Dana 61, Dana 70-U |
| Kit Type | Pinion Preload Shims |
| Shim Count | 66 shims |
| Shim Range | 0.005in to 0.030in thickness |
| Includes | Shims, shim guide, storage pouch |
| Warranty | Yukon Gear limited warranty |
What's Included
- 66x pinion preload shims (0.005in through 0.030in thickness)
- Shim selection guide
- Storage pouch
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What differentials does the SK 34801 fit?
A: The SK 34801 is designed for the Dana 60, Dana 61, and Dana 70-U differentials used in heavy-duty trucks across Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, and Dodge platforms.
Q: How many shims are included in the SK 34801?
A: The SK 34801 includes 66 shims ranging in thickness from 0.005in to 0.030in, along with a shim guide and storage pouch.
Q: What is the purpose of a pinion preload shim kit?
A: In differentials that use a solid spacer rather than a crush sleeve, pinion preload shims are stacked between the inner pinion bearing and the spacer to set the correct amount of bearing drag. Proper preload extends bearing and gear life and prevents differential noise.
Q: Does SK 34801 work with both front and rear Dana 60 axles?
A: Yes. The SK 34801 is compatible with Dana 60 axles in both front and rear axle positions, covering four-wheel-drive applications as well as rear-wheel-drive installations.
Q: Is SK 34801 compatible with a Ford F-350 Dana 60?
A: Yes. The SK 34801 covers the Dana 60 differential used in Ford F-250 and F-350 trucks and Bronco full-size models.
Q: Does this product come with a warranty?
A: Yes. Yukon Gear products are backed by a limited warranty. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, using warranted Yukon Gear parts does not void your vehicle's factory warranty when correctly installed.
Q: Can I use SK 34801 during a ring-and-pinion installation?
A: Yes. The SK 34801 is designed to be used during ring-and-pinion installations in Dana 60, Dana 61, and Dana 70-U differentials to set pinion bearing preload after the correct pinion depth has been established.
Q: Is professional installation recommended?
A: Yes. Pinion preload setting requires a dial indicator or inch-pound torque wrench to measure bearing drag accurately. Professional installation is strongly recommended for correct results.
Installation Instructions
- With the differential housing prepared and the correct pinion depth shim installed, press the rear pinion bearing cup into the housing.
- Install the inner pinion bearing on the pinion shaft.
- Select an initial shim thickness from the SK 34801 kit using the included shim guide as a starting point.
- Install the solid spacer and selected shim(s) on the pinion shaft.
- Install the outer pinion bearing, pinion seal, flange, washer, and pinion nut hand-tight.
- Tighten the pinion nut gradually while checking rotating drag torque with an inch-pound torque wrench after each increment.
- If preload is too high, remove shim material; if too low, add shim material from the SK 34801 kit until the specified drag torque is achieved.
- Once preload is confirmed, install the ring gear carrier and set backlash per the gear manufacturer's specification.
- Verify the tooth contact pattern, torque all fasteners to specification, and install the cover with fresh sealant or gasket.
- Fill to the correct fluid level and road-test before returning 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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