GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2002 🢒 Astro - 2WD 🢒 General Information 🢒 General Information 🢒 Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Clean the rear axle cover area.

    3. Object Number: 1500 Size: SH
  3. Remove the rear axle cover bolts.

    4. Place a container under the axle housing in order to retrieve the lubricant.

  4. Remove the rear axle cover from the axle housing. Pry the rear axle cover loose.
  5. Drain the lubricant from the axle housing.

    6. Object Number: 392774 Size: SH
  6. Remove the fill plug.
  7. Clean the gasket surfaces on the axle housing and the rear axle cover.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 1500 Size: SH
  1. Install the new gasket.
  2. Install the rear axle cover.

    3. 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.

  3. Install the rear axle cover bolts.

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft) in a crosswise pattern.

  4. Add axle lubricant to the axle housing. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.

    5. Object Number: 392774 Size: SH
  5. Install the fill plug.

    6. Tighten
    Tighten the fill plug to 33 N·m (24 lb ft).

  6. Lower the vehicle.