GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Cadillac 🢒 1999 🢒 Catera 🢒 Driveline/Axle 🢒 Rear Drive Axle 🢒 Differential Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

    2. Object Number: 218635 Size: SH
  2. Support the rear axle differential with a transmission jack (1).
  3. Remove the ABS sensor connectors (2).
  4. Remove the wheel drive shafts. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement .
  5. Remove the propeller shaft. Refer to Two-Piece Propeller Shaft Replacement .
  6. Remove the rear propeller shaft coupling.

    7. Object Number: 218638 Size: SH
  7. Remove the differential support bracket bolts (1) from the differential support bracket (2).

    8. Object Number: 218642 Size: SH
  8. Remove the differential bushing bolts (1) from the differential.
  9. Remove the differential.

Installation Procedure
  1. Use the transmission jack to raise the differential into the mounting position.

    2. Object Number: 218642 Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  2. Install the differential bushing bolts (1) to the differential.

    3. Tighten
    Tighten the differential bushing bolts (1) to 100 N·m (74 lb ft).


    Object Number: 218638 Size: SH
  3. Install the differential support bracket bolts (1) to the differential support bracket (2).

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the differential support bracket bolts (1) to 90 N·m (66 lb ft) + 38 degrees.

  4. Install the rear propeller shaft coupling.
  5. Install the propeller shaft. Refer to Two-Piece Propeller Shaft Replacement .
  6. Install the wheel drive shafts. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement .

    7. Object Number: 218635 Size: SH
  7. Install the ABS sensor connectors (2).
  8. Remove the transmission jack (1).
  9. Fill and check the lubricant level. Refer to Lubricant Level Check .
  10. Lower the vehicle.
  11. Test drive the vehicle.
  12. Inspect the vehicle for leaks.