7.5" Trac-Loc installation

[jmabarone]

Hey guys, I just bought a Trac-Loc to install in my '96 Ranger (2wd). I didn't need performance, just a bit more grip, since I'm moving up to Virginia in the winter. I started to install the differential with my father's assistance, and we were doing pretty well until we broke something.
In between the axle housing and the differential bearings, there is a spacer, one for each side. We broke one, and I was wondering if anyone knew the technical name for the part. My dad thinks we can just put it in as it is (2 pieces), but I don't want to do that with my nice new (to me) rear-end.
Hope you guys can help!
Jake

 

[MAKG]

If it (or any part of it -- chips?) comes out, it will D E S T R O Y your gearset.

Those are "carrier shims" and you should be able to get new ones from Ford, or get an install kit from Randy's or somesuch.

You WILL need to reset the backlash with a new carrier, so odds are, you'll need a different shim anyway. You have a dial indicator, right?

If your father is going to give such ridiculous advice, it might be a good idea to keep him in the next room.