Differential bearings + how to make the required tool

[Lotsof 3146 R]

There is a lot of slack on the differential bearing on my 365 gearbox.
Can I simple tighten both sides by the same amount to remove the slack in the bearings?

From Peterb1311 I have received the following information to make the required tool.

I have been retired for a long time now. But no need to worry, you can make a fool very easily. Go to B & Q . Buy a piece of PVC pipe bit smaller than the fine nut, put against nut mark were you need to cut the slots with marker. Drill series ho holes half inch from end of pipe on Mark's, saw Mark's to holes. Hope this explains and is of help. Or I can send you print of tool dimensions. You can also put jubilee clip around pvc but I don't think you will need it. I know you can do this as you have a Lotus.

[Dilkris]

There are many helpful and informative posts, complete with photo's, written on this subject within this Forum - just dig around in the "search" box - you'll find them.

[jbcollier]

Where exactly is the slack?

In and out?  Or, up and down?

Half-shafts off?  Or, attached?

You absolutely CANNOT adjust the diff bearings with the transaxle installed.

[GavinT]

Here's a template for fabracobbling a tool if it's any help.

It's in .pdf file format.

Edit:
The different profiles are intended to accomodate the two principal types of tools (plus a generic one).
1. The shallow variety which apply sideways pressure on the 'teeth' of the side-nut.
2. The deep insertion type that drives the bottom of the 'gullets' between the teeth.

I've yet to use this template to make a tool, so I'd be pleased to get feedback or improvement suggestions.
I had wondered if an extra circle around the outside might aid centralising the template?

[Lotsof 3146 R]

The movement is up/down, not in /out. And accompanied by a nice clonking noise when not under load….
I’ve read all I can find and it appears the taper bearings are not tight. But not really clear about spacers.

So from the replies it looks like a gearbox removal and get it on the bench.
Many thanks for the replies

[jbcollier]

 If there is any play after the diff carrier is secure, you'll need to also split the cases as well so you can check on the spider gear shimming.