Yukon Gear Pinion Depth Shims For 10.5in GM 14 Bolt Truck

Precision Pinion Depth Shims for the GM 10.5-Inch 14 Bolt Truck Axle

Setting proper pinion depth is one of the most critical steps in any ring and pinion installation or differential overhaul. The Yukon Gear SK GM14T shim kit gives you the precision hardware needed to dial in that depth correctly on the GM 10.5-inch 14 bolt truck rear axle, one of the most common and capable rear ends ever installed in heavy-duty GM trucks.

Whether you are regearing for better crawl ratios, swapping in a fresh ring and pinion set, or rebuilding worn bearings, having the correct shim thickness on hand saves time and eliminates guesswork. Each shim in the kit is precision machined to consistent tolerances so your measurements translate directly into reliable, repeatable pinion depth settings.

What Is Included

• One pinion depth shim kit for GM 10.5-inch 14 bolt truck rear differential
• Multiple shims of varying thickness to allow fine adjustment during setup
• Fits all year GM 10.5-inch 14 bolt truck axles (1973 and newer)

Compatible GM 14 Bolt Applications

The GM 10.5-inch 14 bolt truck axle has been the backbone of GM's 3/4-ton and 1-ton truck lineup since 1973. This shim kit fits any vehicle running that axle, including:

• Chevrolet C2500 and C3500 (1973-2000)
• Chevrolet K2500 and K3500 (1973-2000)
• Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD (1999-2019)
• GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD (1999-2019)
• Chevrolet Express 2500 and 3500
• GMC Savana 2500 and 3500
• Chevrolet Suburban 2500

If your GM truck or van is equipped with the factory 10.5-inch 14 bolt rear axle, this kit is the correct shim set for pinion depth setup work.

Fitment Reference

Why Pinion Depth Matters

Pinion depth, the distance from the centerline of the ring gear to the face of the pinion gear, directly controls tooth contact pattern. An incorrect depth causes premature wear, noise, and heat. Shims are the adjustment mechanism that allows you to move the pinion forward or rearward until the contact pattern lands in the proper zone. Using a quality shim kit with consistent machining means you can trust your measurements and get the contact pattern right the first time.

About Yukon Gear Differential Components

Yukon Gear has built a reputation among professional builders and serious off-road enthusiasts by engineering drivetrain components to tight tolerances. Their shim kits, bearing kits, and install kits are designed to work together as a system, giving the installer everything needed for a complete, professional-quality rebuild.

Installation Instructions

1. Remove the differential cover and drain the axle fluid completely.
2. Remove the pinion yoke, pinion nut, and carefully press out the pinion gear.
3. Remove the existing pinion depth shim from behind the rear pinion bearing.
4. Measure the existing shim thickness and compare it to the required depth specification for your ring and pinion set.
5. Select the appropriate shim or combination of shims from the SK GM14T kit to achieve the target depth.
6. Press the rear pinion bearing onto the pinion with the selected shim in place.
7. Reinstall the pinion assembly into the carrier and set pinion bearing preload using a crush sleeve or solid spacer per your ring and pinion kit instructions.
8. Install the ring gear and set backlash per manufacturer specification.
9. Verify tooth contact pattern using gear marking compound before final assembly.
10. Reinstall the differential cover with a fresh gasket or RTV sealant, fill to proper fluid level, and torque all fasteners to specification.

Note: Pinion depth setup requires precision measuring tools including a dial indicator and depth micrometer. If you are not experienced with differential rebuilds, professional installation is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What vehicles does this shim kit fit?
   It fits any GM truck or van equipped with the 10.5-inch 14 bolt rear axle, covering 3/4-ton and 1-ton models from 1973 onward. This includes the C/K 2500 and 3500, Silverado and Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, Express and Savana vans, and the Suburban 2500.
2. Do I need this kit for every ring and pinion install?
   Yes, in most cases. The pinion depth must be set any time the pinion or its supporting bearings are removed. Using the correct shim thickness ensures proper gear tooth contact and prevents premature wear.
3. How many shims are included in the kit?
   The kit includes multiple shims of varying thicknesses so you can select the correct combination to achieve your target pinion depth specification.
4. Can I reuse the old pinion depth shim?
   Reusing an old shim is not recommended if the bearing or pinion has been replaced. Manufacturing tolerances vary between parts, and the old shim may not place the new pinion at the correct depth. A new shim from this kit ensures accuracy.
5. Do I need special tools to set pinion depth?
   Yes. You will need a dial indicator, depth micrometer, and a pinion depth gauge or equivalent setup tools to accurately measure and set depth. Gear marking compound is also needed to verify the tooth contact pattern before finalizing the build.
6. Is this the same kit used for a regear and an overhaul?
   Yes. Whether you are changing gear ratios or simply replacing worn bearings, the process of setting pinion depth is the same and this shim kit covers both applications.
7. Does this kit include a crush sleeve or pinion bearing?
   No. This kit provides the pinion depth shims only. Crush sleeves, pinion bearings, and other overhaul components are sold separately by Yukon Gear.
8. What is the GM 10.5-inch 14 bolt axle rated for?
   The GM 10.5-inch 14 bolt is one of the strongest factory axles ever produced for a half-ton or greater GM truck. It is rated for substantial towing and hauling loads and is a popular choice for lifted trucks and tow rigs because of its robust design and wide aftermarket support.
9. Can this shim kit be used on the GM 9.5-inch 14 bolt axle?
   No. This kit is specific to the GM 10.5-inch 14 bolt truck axle. The 9.5-inch axle uses different specifications and requires its own shim set.

Proposition 65 Warning

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, visit www.p65warnings.ca.gov.