The Chrysler 8.25 is one of the most common axles found in jeep cherokees. The 97+ version has 29 spline count axles and is comparable in strength to the xj d44. This c-clip axle has no carrier break and will support gears as deep as 4.88, and is well supplied by the aftermarket for differential and locker options. For the casual wheeler running 35's and under this axle can be a great, low cost, and readily available option to provide reliable strength.
In place of the dana style shims the 8.25 uses threaded adjusters on the outside of the carrier bearings to adjust backlash and bearing preload. These adjusters are threaded into the housing and bearing cap and the tension of the bearing cap locks them in place
These can be adjusted in and out using a spanner tool from the side, or for about 15$ you can build a tool to adjust it with a ratchet down the axle tube. To do this i used a 7/8 grade 5 nut, a section of 1/2" black pipe (schedule 80 from lowes) and a cheap 3/8 extension.
This is very simple however i thought it would be a good idea to detail the adjuster for anyone who wants to sink their teeth into axle building. I started by welding the nut square to the end of the tube. The adjuster opening is slightly smaller than 7/8 so some time with the flap disc on each ensured a nice fit in the adjuster.
Finally cut it to length and weld the extension in the other side, the head of the 3/8 extesion should fit flush with the pipe. Just remember when cutting the tool to length leave enough to handle it outside the tube so you can hold onto it to leverage and it doesnt have to ride against the axle seal. In total i spent more time typing this how to than it actually took to make the tool and being able to adjust the axle with a ratchet is worth the 15$ spent on the parts. If your a first time axle builder and have been looking for a good how to on this i hope ive been able to help..... keep on building!
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