Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

Gear pattern check

When I regeared the axles in my 99 TJ 20 years ago (wow time flies), I used Yukon gears. Both sets had casting flaws. I had to argue with them to get them to send me new sets. Eventually they gave in and admitted the flaws could affect performance. Wasn't too impressed with their customer service.
 
  • Like
Reactions: lBasket
This is what I'm talking about. (Red line) There is no distinct pattern, it's all over the place. (Green line) The buildup at the root didn't allow for visual of the pattern AT the root.

If the pattern was oval, or sunrise/sunset, it would be more distinct. The current pattern just shows squiggly lines, partially because the compound is running down the face of the tooth since it's too thinned out.

View attachment 665286

And please do that quickly, Mac. Otherwise your new nickname will be "Slimy"...

🙂
 
That's a big part of this battle right now.

Yup very very aware of this.

I put things back together again last night for a little test drive.

The reason I did the gear swap was because I was hearing a noise in the front end like a playing card in a bike tire. I figured it was probably the u joints but since I was going to pull the front axles I might as well replace the gear set with three chipped teeth.

I think I'm ok with the gears as is. If things go wrong I'll spend the money on Revolution.

The noise changes in pitch as I turn the tires.

The hub bearings are tight and good imho. I replaced the u joints properly with Spicer. I GoPro'd the front end and don't hear the noise over the road noises. I put it up on jack stands and no noises.

Wondering if it's my clapped out transfer case. But that wouldn't explain the pitch change turning the tires. Maybe the Eaton e-locker is making the noise? Ingested too much broken gear teeth?

-Mac
 
  • Like
Reactions: hosejockey61
Yup very very aware of this.

I put things back together again last night for a little test drive.

The reason I did the gear swap was because I was hearing a noise in the front end like a playing card in a bike tire. I figured it was probably the u joints but since I was going to pull the front axles I might as well replace the gear set with three chipped teeth.

I think I'm ok with the gears as is. If things go wrong I'll spend the money on Revolution.

The noise changes in pitch as I turn the tires.

The hub bearings are tight and good imho. I replaced the u joints properly with Spicer. I GoPro'd the front end and don't hear the noise over the road noises. I put it up on jack stands and no noises.

Wondering if it's my clapped out transfer case. But that wouldn't explain the pitch change turning the tires. Maybe the Eaton e-locker is making the noise? Ingested too much broken gear teeth?

-Mac

No idea without seeing or hearing it in person at this point. I think setting you gears as good as you can at least help eliminates them as the possible issue.
 
  • Like
Reactions: macleanflood
Got the initial break in done. It's 19 miles around the lake.

Seperate thread on chasing a noise in the front end...turned out it was the rear shaft. So with the rear shaft out it was a perfect opportunity to do a real break in.

Starting temp 40.9 to 40.2. Ambient temp is 32. Mileage 249021. Drove 19 miles around the lake. Pinion was around 145 with a section at 154. Front of case was 119. Could hear a slight whine or howl.

I'll tell you a front wheel drive TJ gets squirrelly on ice patches.

Headed out to the woods to scout for trash. Rear shaft fixed, no noises. Time for another 481 miles of easy driving.

Thanks everyone for the help!

-Mac
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts