Pinion Depth on 8.75 741 case

Sounds like youre in the ballpark but theoretically, there sould be no noise. The measurement to be taken when you get the pinion sinched down is to verify the turning torque. Some guys can do it by feel but thats after doing A LOT of diffs. To do it right, you need an inch pound torque wrench. New bearings should be between 25-40 in. lbs, used bearings are usually 20 in. lbs. If you rotate it back and forth the yoke should have a good amount of resistance. Pinion nut torque is like 220 ft lbs.

ok so maybe i just dont have enough preload on the bearings... went i set it i just made sure it was easy to spin but not loose...

and the pinion nut it locked down...

The bearing preload has no bearing (no pun intended) on pinion gear depth. All that does is apply preload to the bearing. And of course as you know, tapered roller bearings must have some preload. How bad is the noise? If it's not bad, I say drive it like you stole it.

well see thats what im thinking... with the pattern being where it was i guess i might just not have enough preload on the bearings...

changing the preload shouldn't make the backlash change right? also because they are worn gears should they be set up a little tighter than .008"??