Re-Gear Break In Procedure

ALL new ring & pinion gear sets must be properly broken in to prevent damage & premature failure.

Improper gear break-in procedures may cause overloading and overheating of the ring and pinion gears as well as break down of the gear oil. Failure to properly break-in a new gear set can be identified by inspection, and may void the manufacturer’s warranty.

If you’re replacing the ring & pinion gear set, don’t plan on heading up over that mountain pass or hooking up that heavy trailer just yet….. Following the simple steps outlined below before you head out can prevent potential noise issues or gear damage.

After driving the first 15-20 miles at around 60 mph, it is best to stop and let the differential cool completely – usually about 1hr.  You will do this 5 times for the first 100 miles of the breakin procedure. Maintaining a speed below 65 mph and driving conservatively for the first 500 miles is also advised. The gear oil should be changed after 500 miles. We recommend that you drive at least 500 miles before any heavy use or towing. During the first 45 miles of actual towing, only drive 10-15 miles at a time before stopping to let the differential cool.

These steps are necessary to prevent damage to the new ring & pinion gear. Any heavy use or overloading of the differential during the first 500 miles may cause irreparable damage to the gear set.  In addition the rules above, the following is also true:

  • Avoid Heavy Acceleration
  • No Wheeling / Offroading / Towing
  • No Long Distance Trips
  • No Speeds Over 65mph
  • No Burnouts!!

Again, IMPROPER BREAK-IN CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY INSPECTION AND MAY VOID THE MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY AND THE WARRANTY PROVIDED BY DALLAS OFFROAD LLC.

Positraction / Limited Slip Differentials

Positraction chatter is normal for limited slip and positraction differentials.  Both rear tires must measure the same height from the ground to the top of the wheel in order for the differential to function properly without premature wear.  Limited slip additive or friction modifier for limited slip differentials must be used with the oil to reduce positraction chatter in the event that the oil is changed.

Lockers

Mechanical locking differentials will bang and clunk during normal operation.  Both rear tires must measure the same height from the ground to the top of the wheel in order for a locking differential to functional properly.

Gear Noise

Most aftermarket gears are primarily designed for strength and may have some noise.  This noise is especially inherent in vans, SUVs, and passenger cars.