2001 Final Drive Maintenance

[Dragon4056]

So, what is the importance of tightening the 4 final drive nuts last in the install sequence? I just completed the clean and re-grease procedure and did as directed. Just wondering if it is to help in the alignment of the wheel splines or is it last in the procedure for proper alignment of the driveline??? And what would the consequences be if they were torqued first?? I actually left the brake bracket off, installed the axle bolt through the differential and wheel, pulled the splines together, backed the axle bolt out enough to install the brake bracket and done. Very easy. After reading all the threads here, I thought I was gonna meet the boogie man some where, he never showed up!

[Chrisj CMA]

Not last!  The final drive needs to be loose on the swing arm so the tightening of the axle nut can flatten or “align” the drive to the wheel. Tightening the four bolts locks in the alignment. Additionally it’s best if the right side shock is NOT attached to the drive during alignment. Also. The tire should not be in contact with the ground. The four bolts should be tightened immediately after torquing the axel nut and before re-attaching the shock.

Not last.

Doing otherwise gives you a real good chance of premature spline wear.

[Dragon4056]

Not Last ????? Well that explains everything!

[Chrisj CMA]

Not Last ????? Well that explains everything!

Once you understand the WHY you won’t have trouble remembering the HOW.

[Dragon4056]

So, sounds to me like the answer is for correct alignment of the drive-line. All accomplished as you said. By last in the procedure, as the manual states, first tighten the brake bracket guide bolt, then the axle nut, then LAST the 4 final drive mounting nuts. Got it, all good. I had some (minor) wear on the splines, does anyone know best place to find a good pumpkin and wheel hub??

[Dragon4056]

Maybe I should have stated: The drive had been removed!!! So the mounting nuts were already loose! Thats the WHY and now guess I'll never forget the HOW. Thanks for the response

[SCain]

Additionally it’s best if the right side shock is NOT attached to the drive during alignment.

Jeff,
Why is it best if the shock is not attached during the tightening of the diff to the swingarm?

Just curious, I know the process very well but had never heard this.
Thanks
Steve

[Chrisj CMA]

Additionally it’s best if the right side shock is NOT attached to the drive during alignment.

Jeff,
Why is it best if the shock is not attached during the tightening of the diff to the swingarm?

Just curious, I know the process very well but had never heard this.
Thanks
Steve

Anything that hinders the movement/mating of the wheel to the drive is not  good. The shock is not needed at that point so why not make sure it’s not interfering

[Paladin528]

Pumpkins are discontinued from Honda but are available at silly prices in the used market.
The seals and the ring and pinion gear are available new for under $300.  Its just a matter of rebuilding it yourself.