GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 42148 Pinion Bearing Race Installer
    • J 42176 Driver Handle

    Object Number: 768674  Size: SH
  1. Install the differential drive pinion gear outer bearing outer race to the housing using the J 42148 , the J 42176 and a deadblow hammer or press.
  2. Important: Lubricate the differential drive pinion gear outer bearing with rear axle lubricant prior to installation.

  3. Install the differential drive pinion gear outer bearing into the housing.
  4. Install the pinion seal.

  5. Object Number: 218858  Size: SH
  6. Install the correct pinion shim (1) to the differential housing (2).

  7. Object Number: 218860  Size: SH
  8. Using the J 42176 and the J 42148 , install the inner bearing race to the differential housing with a deadblow hammer or a press.

  9. Object Number: 218861  Size: SH
  10. Lubricate the differential drive pinion gear inner bearing and the drive pinion gear shaft with rear axle lubricant and use a press to install the differential drive pinion gear inner bearing (2) to the differential drive pinion gear (1).

  11. Object Number: 218663  Size: SH
  12. Install the differential drive pinion gear bearing spacer (1) onto the differential drive pinion gear (2).
  13. Install the drive pinion gear into the rear axle housing and set pinion depth. Refer to Pinion Depth Adjustment .
  14. Install the differential drive pinion seal and flange. Refer to Drive Pinion Flange/Yoke and/or Oil Seal Replacement .

  15. Object Number: 218854  Size: SH
  16. Rotate the differential drive pinion gear several times to assure that the inner and the outer bearings have been seated.
  17. If installing a new differential ring and pinion gearset, perform the gear tooth contact pattern check. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection .
  18. Using a torque wrench (2), inspect the preload.
  19. Reset the preload to the proper specifications if the preload was reduced by rotating the differential drive pinion gear.