GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Cadillac 🢒 2001 🢒 Catera 🢒 Driveline/Axle 🢒 Rear Drive Axle 🢒 Differential Carrier Assembly 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. Firmly secure the differential to a transmission jack (1).
  3. Disconnect the ABS sensor connectors (2).
  4. Remove the drive axles. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.
  5. Remove the propeller shaft. Refer to Two-Piece Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.
  6. Remove the rear propeller shaft coupling.

    7. Object Number: 229073 Size: SH
  7. Remove the automatic level control link from the ball stud on the lower control arm.

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

    9. Object Number: 218642 Size: SH
  9. Remove the differential bushing bolts (1).
  10. Lower the transmission jack in order to remove the differential.

Installation Procedure
  1. With the differential still firmly attached to the transmission jack, raise the differential into 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).

    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).

    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 in Propeller Shaft.
  6. Install the drive axles. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.

    7. Object Number: 229073 Size: SH
  7. Install the automatic level control link to the ball stud on the lower control arm.

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