8.25 Rear End Pinion 74 Satellite

1974 Satellite Sebring. Was changing rear yoke and U-Joint. While the yoke was out, I grabbed the pinion. It had noticeable side to side movement. I did not measure, but 1/16 to 1/8 of inch is what it felt like. Is this normal? I have not done anything with a pinion bearing before and do not know the adjustments.

I know this car eats U-Joints, just wondering if this could be part of the problem.

How much play was in it before you backed the large nut off?

You do know that the pinion sets the preload and when you remove the yoke you are supposed to use a new crush sleeve and go thru the preload setup.

Anyway, without the yoke in place you will have excessive movement of the pinion. How much? Dunno never really paid attention to that.

yep. Just never opened one before and was surprised at how much it moved.