GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 22912-B Split Plate Bearing Puller
    • J 25299 Side Bearing Installer
    • J 8092 Driver Handle
    • J 8107-2 Side Bearing Puller Pilot

Disassembly Procedure


    Object Number: 707547  Size: SH
  1. Remove the differential side bearings by performing the following steps:
  2. 1.1. Install the J 22912-B  (2) and the J 8107-2  (1) as shown.
    1.2. Remove the differential side bearings using the J 22912-B and a hydraulic press.

    Object Number: 680402  Size: SH

    Notice: Do not pry the ring gear from the differential case. Prying the ring gear from the differential case may cause damage to the ring gear and/or the differential case.

  3. Remove the ring gear bolts.
  4. The ring gear bolts have left-handed threads.

    Discard the bolts.

  5. Remove the ring gear from the differential case.
  6. Drive the ring gear off with a brass drift if necessary.


    Object Number: 680404  Size: SH
  7. Remove the differential pinion gears and the differential side gears by doing the following:
  8. 4.1. Remove the pinion shaft lock bolt.
    4.2. Remove the pinion shaft.
    4.3. Roll the differential pinion gear out of the case with the pinion thrust washers.
    4.4. Remove the differential side gears and the side gear thrust washers.

    Mark the pinion gears top and bottom and the differential side gears left and right.

Assembly Procedure

  1. Lubricate the pinion and side gears with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
  2. Important: If the same differential side gears and the thrust washers are being used, install the gears and the thrust washers to the original locations.

  3. Install the thrust washers to the differential side gears.

  4. Object Number: 680404  Size: SH
  5. Install the differential pinion gears by doing the following:
  6. 3.1. Position one pinion gear between the differential side gears.
    3.2. Rotate the differential side gears until the pinion gear is directly opposite the opening in the differential case.
    3.3. Place the other pinion gear between the differential side gears.

    Line up the hole in both the pinion gears.

  7. Install the thrust washers.
  8. Rotate the pinion gears toward the opening in order to permit the sliding in of the thrust washers.

  9. Install the pinion shaft.
  10. 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.

  11. Install a new pinion shaft lock bolt.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the new pinion shaft lock bolt to 36 N·m (27 lb ft).


    Object Number: 680451  Size: SH

    Important: The mating surface of the ring gear and the differential case must be clean and free of burrs before installing the ring gear.

  13. Place the ring gear on the case.
  14. Install the new ring gear bolts. Tighten the ring gear bolts alternately and in stages, gradually pulling the ring gear onto the differential case.
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the ring gear bolts in sequence to 140 N·m (103 lb ft).


    Object Number: 651740  Size: SH
  16. Install the differential side bearings by doing the following:
  17. • In order to protect the differential case, install the J 8107-2 in the case on the side opposite the bearing installation.
    • Install the J 25299  (2) and the J 8092  (1) onto the differential case bearing as shown.
    • Drive the bearing onto the case using the J 25299  (2) and the J 8092  (1).