I purchased a Detroit Soft Locker (225SL-56A) for my 99 F-350. I have a question about the carrier shims to anyone that has done this installation before. The rear is a Sterling 10.5 in.w/3.73's and when I went to Ford to get new ring gear bolts, tone ring, and a shim kit, they told me they don't sell a shim kit. They said the shims have to be ordered as needed. I purchased the unit from Randy's Ring and Pinion, but have not been able to get through to anyone on the tech line. I did leave a message 2 days ago, but it was not returned as of today. I want to install the diff as soon as possible, but do not want to get into the middle of a job and have to machine my own shims to get it finished. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Try Valley Gear in Seattle WA... I've done alot of buisness with them and they have always been good to me.

YMMV
Your Resident Foneguy

 

randy's is not getting back to you??

strange... i have notioced their phone ppl were top notch. try again!

 

You normally don't need to re shim anything just in and out.
Also the bolts you can reuse with alittle locktite as far as the ring i reused mine with alittle locktite also. A pain to get on though..
The main thing is to change the bearings if any pitting at all.


If you need any help just email me.

Dick