rear end question

[1989dangeroustoy]

Hey guys! New to the site, this is my first post. Anyway I just acquired a 96 explorer for free but the pinion bearings are shot, I eventually want to gear it but don't have the funds right now, so I just want to replace the bearings for now so I can smog and register it, my question is ... if I only replace the bearings and leave the carrier in tact. Do I have to worry about backlash and pinion depth or can I just leave the factory shims?

 

[PopRichie77]

Bearings are made to pretty precise tolerances, if you can get the same brand of bearings you will be ok. The brand will be on the old bearing. Chinese bearings will be a few thousands different but still should be ok. I personally would do it.

 

[1989dangeroustoy]

I just don't have the measuring tools to check pinion depth or backlash nor do i fully understand the concept