Differential thrust washers??

[tbush]

Hi all. I am working on the differential for my Spit. There was substantial backlash between the axels. Once I opened it up I found the gears were in remarkably good condition. The backlash is from the thrust washers that go behind the axel gears. They are not there at all. I did find some remenants of them in the oil. It looks like the original ones were a Micarta or phenolic piece about .035" thick.
Is there a better replacement for these available? I can fashion some from brass or stainless shim stock if I need to.  If I go with metal ones should I make oil grooves in the gear thrust surface? I appreciate your thoughts. Thanks.
-Tim

[v8ian]

UK source would probably be Rimmer Bros, they have a Huge stock of old BL parts, they may have NOS parts in stock,
http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/

[Bill Young]

Tim, I'd go with the original type washers or at least what you get from sources like Moss or VB, that way you don't need to worry about and oiling problems. The hold up pretty well and as you know aren't that difficult to change if you have to in a few years. Don't forget that clearance in that area also depends on the condition of the thrust washers behind the axle gears as well. I think if you replace the four washers your diff will be fine.