GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 36850 Assembly Lubricant


    Object Number: 20822  Size: SH
  1. Remove the side cover gaskets (5 and 6) and the thrust washer (7) from the side cover (1).

  2. Object Number: 20325  Size: SH

    Notice: Do not damage the case bore when removing the axle seal.

  3. Remove the side cover axle seal (2). Use the handle end of a hammer.

  4. Object Number: 20822  Size: SH
  5. Inspect the side cover for cracks or damage to the seal grooves and mounting bosses.
  6. Inspect the side cover seals for damage. The side cover seals are reusable if not damaged.
  7. Thoroughly clean the side cover and the side cover seals.
  8. Clean and dry the seal grooves and the axle seal bore.
  9. Install the side cover gaskets (5 and 6) into the grooves on the side cover (1).
  10. Retain the seals with J 36850 or equivalent.
  11. Install the side cover to drive sprocket thrust washer (7) onto the side cover.
  12. Retain the thrust washer with J 36850 or equivalent.

  13. Object Number: 474273  Size: SH
  14. Install the side cover assembly onto the transmission case.
  15. Install the 11 side cover bolts (3) or studs (4) (model dependent).

  16. Object Number: 474274  Size: SH
  17. Refer to the graphic in order to find the correct installation points of the bolts and the stud.

  18. Object Number: 58705  Size: SH

    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.

  19. Hand start the bolts.
  20. Tighten
    Tighten the side cover bolts and stud to 28 N·m (22 lb ft).

Special Tools

J 36850 Assembly Lubricant

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.


    Object Number: 20822  Size: SH
  1. Remove the side cover gaskets (5 and 6) and the thrust washer (7) from the side cover (1).

  2. Object Number: 20325  Size: SH

    Caution: Do not damage the case bore when removing the axle seal.

  3. Remove the side cover axle seal (2). Use the handle end of a hammer.

  4. Object Number: 20822  Size: SH
  5. Inspect the side cover for cracks or damage to the seal grooves and mounting bosses.
  6. Inspect the side cover seals for damage. The side cover seals are reusable if not damaged.
  7. Thoroughly clean the side cover and the side cover seals.
  8. Clean and dry the seal grooves and the axle seal bore.
  9. Install the side cover gaskets (5 and 6) into the grooves on the side cover (1).
  10. Retain the seals with J 36850 lubricant or equivalent.
  11. Install the side cover to drive sprocket thrust washer (7) onto the side cover.
  12. Retain the thrust washer with J 36850 lubricant or equivalent.

  13. Object Number: 474273  Size: SH
  14. Install the side cover assembly onto the transmission case.
  15. Install the 11 side cover bolts (3) or studs (4) (model dependent).

  16. Object Number: 474274  Size: SH
  17. Refer to the graphic in order to find the correct installation points of the bolts and the stud.
  18. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 58705  Size: SH
  19. Hand start the bolts. Tighten the side cover bolts and stud to 28 N·m (22 lb ft).