Copy Original Pattern On Used Ring & Pinion Even If Not Ideal?

[pjmoreland]

I am installing a used 3.73 gearset in my 12-bolt rear end. I have been given the advice to reproduce the original pattern it had from the original rear end. That original pattern, however, was not ideal. 72again4x4, who gave me the gearset (thanks again, Roger!!) had them in his truck and they ran smooth and quiet. Would I be asking for trouble by messing with the pattern? It appears to me that the pinion shim was too thick, and the backlash might have been too large.