GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment 11 Inch Axle

Tools Required

    • J 23690 Bearing Installer
    • J 24385-C Axle Housing Spreader
    • J 26900-13 Magnetic Indicator Base
    • J 8001 Dial Indicator
    • J 8092 Driver Handle

Adjustment Procedure

    • In order to maintain the original backlash, adjust the differential case side bearing preload by changing the thickness of the left and the right side shim packs equally.
    • Measure the shims and the spacers one at a time. Add the measurements together in order to obtain the total thickness of the left or the right side shim pack.
  1. Determine the total shim pack size for the differential case assembly. Refer to Determining Total Shim Pack Size .
  2. Add 0.25 mm (0.010 in) of shim thickness to the right side shim pack-Measurement C, determined in step 1.
  3. This additional amount will set the differential side bearing preload and set the initial backlash.


    Object Number: 168091  Size: SH

    Important: Do not remove the inboard shims from either side of the differential case assembly. The same shims must be used as were used when determining the total shim pack size.

  4. Install the differential side bearings using the J 23690 and the J 8092 .

  5. Object Number: 756302  Size: SH
  6. Install the J 24385-C (2), the J 26900-13 , and the J 8001 (1) to the differential housing as shown.
  7. Preset the dial of the J 8001 to at least 0.05 mm (0.020 in).
  8. Rotate the dial of the J 8001 to zero.
  9. Notice: Do not spread the axle housing more than 0.38 mm (0.015 inch). Overspreading the housing may result in component damage.

  10. Spread the differential housing while watching the J 8001 .
  11. Remove the J 8001 and the J 26900-13 .
  12. Install the differential case assembly with the differential side bearings and the bearing cups.
  13. Install the outboard shims.
  14. Important: Install the bearing caps into the exact position from which each was removed.

  15. Install the bearing caps.
  16. 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.

  17. Install the bearing cap bolts.
  18. Tighten
    Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 115 N·m (85 lb ft).

  19. Adjust the backlash. Refer to Backlash Adjustment .