The backlash between the ring and pinion must be set while torquing the pinion retainer nut. Backlash translates to ring and pinion clearance. The crush sleeve that Benzmac refers to is the component which maintains the correct clearance. You need dial indicators to set these components correctly. If you overtighten the pinion nut, you will have to get another crush sleeve as it will now be shorter than it should be and will give excessive clearance and you will need to start over again. If you are trying to reuse the one that's there now, you will overtighten the pinion and squeeze the hell out of the pinion bearings, leading to excessive backlash, "friction" and early bearing failure. This type of repair requires a knowledgable, experienced mech to complete successfully. BTW, what is the problem with this rear end???

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Jeff L
1987 300e
1989 300e
1987 BMW 325

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 03-29-2000).]

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 03-29-2000).]