Rear Axle - Assemble

Rear Axle - Assemble

Tools Required
- J 8001 Dial Indicator Set
- J 36797 Output Shaft Seal Installer
- J 42155 Differential Lifting Tool
- J 42157 Left Output Shaft Bearing Installer
- J 42164 Pinion Gear Holder
- J 42170 Bearing and Race Installer
- J 42173 Differential Holding Fixture

Important: If the pinion assembly components have not been replaced, reuse the original pinion housing shims. If the pinion assembly components have been replaced, refer to the proper size shims.





1. Assemble the drive pinion prior to rear axle assembly.
2. Install the bearing to the cover (left).





3. Install the bearing into the cover (left) using the J 42157 and a hydraulic press.





4. Install the oil seal into the cover (left) using the J 36797.





5. Install the oil seal into the cover (right) using the J 36797.





6. Install the pinion housing assembly (2) and the selected shim(s) (1) to the differential housing.
The use of M8 x 1.25 dowels or long bolts will ease in pinion housing and shim installation and alignment.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.





7. Install the pinion housing bolts (1).
^ Tighten the bolts to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).





8. Install the C-clip (1) into the groove of the output shaft.





9. Apply thread locker GM P/N 1052942 or equivalent to the threads of the bolts (2) and stud (1). Apply thread locker only to the end of the stud that installs into the mount.
10. Install the mount (3) and bolts (2).
^ Tighten the bolts to 10 Nm (89 inch lbs.).
11. Install two M10 x 1.5 nuts onto the transmission stud (1). Install the stud into the mount.
^ Tighten the stud to 42 Nm (31 ft. lbs.).





12. Install the O-ring (4) to the groove of the cover (right) (3).
13. Install the cover (right) and bolts (2).
^ Tighten the bolts to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).





14. Install the J 8001 onto the transmission stud. Position the tip of the dial indicator against the center off the ring gear tooth surface





15. Install the J 42164 (1) into the splines of the pinion. J 42164 will retain the pinion in order to properly measure backlash.





16. Rotate the output shaft (right) in order to measure backlash. Measure the backlash in two to three locations.

Important: Note the location of the cover (rear) bolt stud for assembly.





17. Install the cover (rear) (2), bolts (3), bolt stud (4), and O-ring (1).





18. Remove the bolts (3) and the differential assembly (1) from the J 42173 (2)





19. Install the O-ring (4) into the groove of the cover (left) (3).
20. Install the magnet to the carrier.
21. Install the cover (left) (3) and bolts (2).
^ Tighten the bolts to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.)





22. Install the vehicle speed sensor and bolt.





23. Install the drain plug and washer.
^ Tighten the drain plug to 35 Nm (26 ft. lbs.).