GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 392514  Size: SH
  1. Unlock the steering column so the steering linkage is free to move.
  2. Disconnect the actuator cable.
  3. Remove air cleaner assembly. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls.
  4. Remove the battery. Refer to Battery Replacement in Engine Electrical.
  5. Remove the battery tray. Refer to Battery Tray Replacement in Engine Electrical.
  6. Raise the suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  7. Remove the front wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

  8. Object Number: 141852  Size: SH
  9. Remove the steering linkage shield, if equipped.

  10. Object Number: 141840  Size: SH
  11. Remove the differential carrier shield, if equipped.

  12. Object Number: 386125  Size: SH
  13. Remove the drain plug and flat washer. Drain the lubricant from the carrier.
  14. Remove the electrical connector from the vacuum actuator housing.

  15. Object Number: 392514  Size: SH
  16. Remove the vacuum actuator cable from the vacuum actuator housing.
  17. Remove the vacuum actuator housing.
  18. Remove the vent hose. Refer to Vent Hose Replacement .
  19. Remove the steering relay rod from the idler and pitman arms. Refer to Relay Rod Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  20. Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.
  21. Remove the right and left wheel drive shafts. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.

  22. Object Number: 6834  Size: SH
  23. Remove the bolts and nuts. Hold the upper nut with an 18 mm wrench inserted through the frame.

  24. Object Number: 6833  Size: SH
  25. Remove the bolts and nuts.
  26. Remove the differential carrier assembly from the frame. Roll the carrier counterclockwise while lifting up to gain clearance from the mounting ears.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 6834  Size: SH
  1. Install the tube assembly.

  2. Object Number: 6833  Size: SH
  3. Install the tube assembly bolts to the carrier assembly.
  4. Install the carrier assembly to the vehicle.
  5. 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.

  6. Install the bolts and nuts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 103 N·m (76 lb ft) or the nuts to 75 N·m (55 lb ft).

  8. Install the upper mounting bolt, washer, and nut.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 48 N·m (36 lb ft).

  10. Install the front propeller shaft retainers and bolts. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.
  11. Install the right and left drive axles. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.
  12. Install the vent hose. Refer to Vent Hose Replacement .
  13. Install the idler and pitman arms to the steering relay rod. Refer to Relay Rod Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  14. Install the shaft and tube assembly. Refer to Inner Axle Housing Shaft and Housing Replacement .

  15. Object Number: 392514  Size: SH
  16. Install the vacuum actuator housing.
  17. Install the vacuum actuator cable to the vacuum actuator housing.
  18. Install the electrical connector to the vacuum actuator housing.
  19. Install the lower shock bolt and nut. Refer to the following procedures:
  20. •  Shock Absorber Replacement in Front Suspension
    •  Shock Absorber Replacement in Rear Suspension
  21. Check the axle lubricant level. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.

  22. Object Number: 386125  Size: SH
  23. Install the drain plug and flat washer.
  24. Tighten
    Tighten the plug to 26 N·m (19 lb ft).

  25. Install the underbody shield, if equipped.
  26. Install the tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  27. Remove the safety stands and lower the vehicle.
  28. Install the battery tray. Refer to Battery Tray Replacement in Engine Electrical.
  29. Install the battery. Refer to Battery Replacement in Engine Electrical.