Gear pattern question

[Demonic]

I'm setting up a Dana 44 rear, 3.54's in my Jeep. The factory book says apply resistance to the ring gear and turn the pinion while checking the pattern, the Yukon/Randy's literature I have says hold back on the pinion and turn the ring gear. Anyone know for sure if altering the method will cause a difference in the pattern?

 

[royslead]

I always did it, using a pry bar between the ring gear and the housing, or the diff case and housing. The idea was to assimilate a load on it, as you would have when turning wheels / weight of the vehicle.

 

[RustyRatRod]

Since the point is to try and simulate having a load on the axles, it's probably best to do it like the factory service manual says.