Homemade case spreader and holding fixture.

[viper82489]

Nice. Here's the spreader I made, I just used the two big holes in the case instead of making the plates. and you can kinda see the stand I made too.

 

[no cigar]

Hey guys, sorry for the thread revial, but would any of you still happen to have the pictures that aren't showing up in this thread anymore?

Thanks!

 

[wjurls]

I still see them in here... Which can't you see?

 

[SlowSVT]

Here is mine I just finished today.

 

[no cigar]

I still see them in here... Which can't you see?

Sorry, I was browsing the thread at work... Looks like they were blocked lol.

 

[10sec89]

Just got done changing out bearings on mine and made a jig to hold the rear just like the OP. Worked perfectly.

 

[TermiN8er]

What is the purpose for spreading the case?

I have changed gears/bearings before and didn't spread the case. My gears are within tolerance and had no issues. :shrug:

 

[THunterW]

^ yeah I have the same question? I'm in the middle of replacing my gears and all bearings and seals and new clutch packs, my differential came out of the pumpkin easily. Will I have to use one of these spreaders to reinstall it? I know the Ford IRS rebuild manual says to use one but wasn't sure how critical it is?

 

[no cigar]

Just got done changing out bearings on mine and made a jig to hold the rear just like the OP. Worked perfectly.

So did your jig actually spread the case or just suspend it?

 

[dan04gt]

^ yeah I have the same question? I'm in the middle of replacing my gears and all bearings and seals and new clutch packs, my differential came out of the pumpkin easily. Will I have to use one of these spreaders to reinstall it? I know the Ford IRS rebuild manual says to use one but wasn't sure how critical it is?

Because Aluminum is a soft metal, forcing the carrier in with pre load can
damage the case.
Basically your trying to wedge steel that is bigger into aluminum, and that doesn't end well.


YOU MUST USE A CASE SPREADER.

 

[THunterW]

Thanks, I'll be sure to get one then.

 

[THunterW]

So I just finished the pinion preload in my case and attempted to install the carrier without spreading, and damn I couldn't get it in. Looks like I will have to use a spreader like you guys said, haha. I kept the factory 3.55 gear ratio and tried using the factory shims but couldn't get the carrier with ring gear in since it was too tight.

 

[wjurls]

I was cleaning the garage yesterday and came across the spreader and fixtures featured on the start of this thread. I am willing to sell it as I no longer need it. I also have a billetflow pulley puller as well.

PM me if interested.