Traction Lock 9" question

[Bow Tie 67]

I have a rebuilt ford traction lock ( 4 spider gear ) third member. The right axle has excessive radial play to the point where I hear an audible klunk when I let out the clutch. I have a new true track on order but wont see it for a couple of months. ( backordered )



I'm considering adding a second thrust washer or shim under the right axle drive spider gear. The unit looks good when disassembled but the klunk is driving me nuts. Has anyone done this before? I will only be using it until the snow flys. And if its been done where did you source a hardened shim / washer? OR should I just beat the snot out of it like it is and see if she blows?

[big gear head]

I guess this is the one we talked about on the phone? If you knew exactly how thick you needed it I could make one for you, but I don't know how you would find out how thick it needs to be.

[Bow Tie 67]

Freddie

Yep, I was just looking to see if anyone had addressed a similar problem. I made a shim out of stainless at work but it was .025 and seemed to thick. I want to drive it and since I really found nothing wrong its going back together and will take some punishment.

[big gear head]

I wouldn't be too hard on it. The way it is right now the left axle gear is taking almost all of the load, which means that it is about half as strong as it should be.

[Bow Tie 67]

Ah, it's not easy, I have been bumping it off the rev limiter in 1st and 2nd. The posi seems to be working fine, considering the car is getting sideways for some reason. :O

[big gear head]

Just remember that if that side cover breaks you will loose the bearing, and the case and ring & pinion gears will be trashed.

[Bow Tie 67]

Thanks for the warning I'll be careful. By the way your car is very nice, I love the color.