Tool Required

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 Drive Pinion Shim Selection for selection of the proper size shims.

1. Assemble the drive pinion prior to rear axle assembly. Refer to Drive Pinion Assemble .
2. Using the J 46405 , install the oil seal into the left cover.
3. Using the J 46405 , install the oil seal into the right cover.



4. Install the pinion housing assembly (4) and the selected shim or shims (19) to the differential housing. Refer to Drive Pinion Shim Selection for shim selection.

The use of M8 x 1.25 dowels or long bolts will ease in pinion housing/cage and shim installation and alignment.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.




5. Install the pinion housing/cage bolts (7).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 28 N·m (20 lb ft).




6. Install the J 42155 into the groove of the output shaft in order to install the differential case assembly.



7. Install the C-clip (115) into the groove of the output shaft.




Important: The following steps only apply to some models.

8. Apply threadlocker GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489), or equivalent, to the threads (2) of the bolts (21).
9. Apply sealant GM P/N 1052942 (Canadian P/N 10953466), or equivalent, to the head (1) of the bolts (21), only to seal them. Also apply to the threads (3) of the stud (22) that goes into the carrier.
10. Install the adapter (23) and bolts (21).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

11. Install 2 M10 x 1.5 nuts onto the transmission stud (22). Install the stud into the adapter.

Tighten
Tighten the stud to 42 N·m (31 lb ft).




12. Install the O-ring (9) on the right cover (3) and the dowel (10) into the carrier.
13. Install the right cover and bolts (7).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 28 N·m (20 lb ft).




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



15. Install the J 42164 into the splines of the pinion. You must hold J 42164 to retain the pinion in order to properly measure backlash.



16. Move the right output shaft in both directions in order to measure the gear backlash. Measure the backlash in two to three locations at the ring gear teeth while holding the pinion shaft. Refer to Rear Axle Specifications .




Important: Note the location of the cover - rear bolt for assembly.

17. Install the cover - rear (5), bolt (16), and gasket (17).

Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 10 N·m (89 lb in).




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



19. Install the O-ring (9) on the left cover (2).
20. Install the magnet (15) and dowel (10) to the carrier.
21. Install the left cover (2) and bolts (7).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 28 N·m (20 lb ft).




22. Install the drain plug and washer (25).

Tighten
Tighten the drain plug to 35 N·m (26 lb ft).

23. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .