Set up my first 8 3/4 and must ask what you say about the outcome pattern. Facts all new bearings, new Dr d gearset, new Arp bolts on used cone & 489 housing. Lash 0.007 Moving piniong torque 17, bolts to spec etc. We started setting up the pinion depth by ingraved 2.770 but we found out that was way out on pattern. Started strictly shim by pattern...started with a 30shim now it start look.something. From there we went up and down on shims but we just got it worse. So the grand final.now is a 33shim. I did reshim about 15 times phuu
For piniong shim had to go out/in we machined polished a brand new bearing..good to have as nr 2 diff is on the works. Any comment on pattern is welcome.
Thanks Michael

Hi Challenger , I like your pattern . Did you happen to check the sure grip cone clearance while you had everything apart ? You hate to have the cones bottom in the case after doing all this work . Ronnie

Your drive looks acceptable. The coast side..not so much, but it's secondary in importance. The best pattern stays within the four walls and doesn't roll-off the crown, toe, heel, or into the root.

Hi Ronnie

Thanks for your feedback, a better pattern is just not possible to make with this gearset. No I have to trust the seller this time. If it shows a defect, well then just have to bite into the sour apple. Regardless now done my engine stand adapter special bearings, custom pullers etc ... will make life easier ... this job has taught me a lot along the way, already working on my next one. This will be the new Yukon Gearset. We keep our fingers crossed and work on!