GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 22912-B Split-Plate Bearing Puller
    • J 2619-01 Slide Hammer with Adapter
    • J 29369-1 Bushing and Bearing Remover
    • J 29369-2 Bushing and Bearing Remover (2"-3")
    • J 42213 Adjuster Sleeve Socket
    • J 45224 Side Bearing Adjustment Wrench
    • J 45228 Pinion Bearing Cup Remover/Installer
    • J 45234 Pinion Remover
    • J 8614-01 Flange and Pulley Holding Tool

Inspection Procedure

Perform the following before disassembling the differential carrier assembly:

  1. Remove the drain plug from the axle.
  2. Drain the axle lubricant.
  3. Inspect the oil and the case for metal chips.
  4. Determine the source of the metal chips, such as a broken gear or bearing cage.

  5. Inspect the ring gear backlash. Refer to Backlash Inspection and Adjustment .
  6. Measure the rotating torque of the pinion and differential case using an inch-pound torque wrench.

This information can be used in order to determine the cause of the axle problem. The information will also help when setting up and preloading the differential case.

Determine the cause of the axle problem before disassembly, if possible.

Disassembly Procedure


    Object Number: 756153  Size: SH
  1. Install the J 29369-1  (2) and the J 2619-01  (1) to the inboard or oil pan side seal as shown.
  2. Remove the seal by pulling on the J 2619-01  (1).
  3. Install the J 29369-2 and the J 2619-01 to the outboard or wheel drive shaft side seal.
  4. Remove the seal by pulling on the J 2619-01 .

  5. Object Number: 756967  Size: SH
  6. Remove the differential carrier case half bolts.
  7. Separate the differential carrier case assembly case halves.

  8. Object Number: 756973  Size: SH
  9. Remove the differential case assembly.

  10. Object Number: 756160  Size: SH
  11. Install the J 42213 to the left side differential bearing adjuster.

  12. Object Number: 756974  Size: SH

    Important: The differential bearing adjusters are not interchangeable. Mark the adjusters accordingly.

  13. Remove the left side differential bearing adjuster using the J 42213 .
  14. Mark the adjuster.


    Object Number: 756976  Size: SH
  15. Remove the left side differential bearing cup.
  16. Install the J 45224 to the right side differential bearing adjuster.

  17. Object Number: 756949  Size: SH

    Important: The differential bearing adjusters are not interchangeable. Mark the adjusters accordingly.

  18. Remove the right side differential bearing adjuster using the J 45224 . Mark the adjuster.

  19. Object Number: 756971  Size: SH
  20. Remove the right side differential bearing cup.

  21. Object Number: 157174  Size: SH
  22. Measure the rotating torque of the drive pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench. Record the measurement.

  23. Object Number: 664065  Size: SH
  24. Install the J 8614-01 to the pinion yoke as shown.
  25. Remove the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01 .

  26. Object Number: 767107  Size: SH
  27. Install the J 45234 to the left differential carrier assembly case half as shown.
  28. Remove the pinion yoke, the washer, and the drive pinion by turning the screw of the J 45234 clockwise.

  29. Object Number: 767106  Size: SH
  30. Remove the dust deflector from the pinion yoke with a soft-faced hammer.
  31. Important: Carefully pry the seal from the bore. Do not distort or scratch the aluminum case.

  32. Remove the pinion oil seal using a suitable seal remover tool.
  33. Remove the outer pinion bearing.

  34. Object Number: 680110  Size: SH
  35. Install the J 22912-B between the pinion bearing and the pinion gear as shown.
  36. Remove the inner pinion bearing using the J 22912-B and a hydraulic press.
  37. Remove the pinion gear selectable shim.

  38. Object Number: 767116  Size: SH
  39. Install the J 45228-4 to the outer pinion bearing cup as shown.

  40. Object Number: 767096  Size: SH
  41. Install the J 45228-1 (2) and the J 45228-5 (1) to the J 45228-4.
  42. Seat the ridge of the J 45228-1 (2) into the outer pinion bearing cup bore.

  43. Remove the outer pinion bearing cup by turning the J 45228-5 (1) clockwise.

  44. Object Number: 767115  Size: SH
  45. Install the J 45228-4 to the inner pinion bearing cup as shown.

  46. Object Number: 767108  Size: SH
  47. Install the J 45228-1 (1) and the J 45228-5 (2) to the J 45228-4.
  48. Remove the outer pinion bearing cup by turning the J 45228-5 (2) clockwise.