How do you guys add "load" to ring gears while doing a ring and pinion setup. I usually put enough drag with the brakes until it takes approximately 50ft/lb to rotate the axle. Then I check gear pattern. The 8.8 I'm building is out of the car, and i have not ordered axles yet.

 

Just the pinion bearing preload should be enough to check the pattern. You can always manually add drag by holding the yoke. You always want to rotate the ring gear to check a pattern as turning the pinion can give you funky looking patterns. you can get a more even pressure turning the ring gear which will give you the most accurate pattern.

Miles