GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 8001 Dial Indicator Set
    • J 42143 Differential Side Bearing Preload Clamp
  1. Install the differential carrier into the rear axle housing.
  2. Use the cover bolts to install the J 42143 onto the rear axle housing cover surface.
  3. Tighten
    Tighten the cover bolts until fully seated. Do not strip the cover bolts.

  4. Rotate the differential carrier several times to seat the bearings.

  5. Object Number: 218870  Size: SH
  6. Perform the following steps to mount the J 8001 onto the J 42143 .
  7. 4.1. Use the small button on the indicator stem so that contact can be made near the heel end of the tooth.
    4.2. Set the J 8001 so that the stem is in line with the gear rotation and is perpendicular to the tooth angle for an accurate backlash reading

    Important: 

       • The lash must not vary over 0.05 mm (0.002 in) around the ring gear.
       • Check for the following conditions if a variation is over 0.05 mm (0.002 in):
          - Check for burrs.
          - Make corrections as necessary.
          - Check for uneven bolting conditions.
          - Make corrections as necessary.
          - Check for a distorted differential housing flange.
          - Make corrections as necessary.
       • Hold the drive pinion gear stationary when checking the backlash.
       • The backlash at point of minimum lash should be between 0.10 mm and 0.20 mm (0.004 in and 0.008 in).
       • Transfer 0.04 mm (0.0016 in) in the differential side bearing adjuster ring thickness for each 0.025 mm (0.001 in) change in backlash desired.

  8. Check the backlash at the four points around the ring gear.