Tool Required

Important: Replacing the left side cover bushing requires a NEW left side cover and a NEW bushing. Replacing only the bushing will result in a low press fit condition. Use new bushings where new covers are available without bushings installed.

1. Using J 42157 and a press, install the bushing into the cover, only when replacing with a new left hand cover .




Important: If the pinion assembly components have not been replaced, reuse the original pinion housing shims. If the pinion assembly components have been replaced, refer to Drive Pinion Shim Selection for selection of the proper size shims.

2. Assemble the drive pinion prior to rear axle assembly. Refer to Drive Pinion Assemble .
3. Using the J 46405 , install the oil seal into the left cover.



4. Using the J 46405 , install the oil seal into the right cover.



5. Install the pinion housing assembly (1) and the selected shim or shims (2) to the differential housing. Refer to Drive Pinion Shim Selection for shim selection.

The use of M8 x 1.25 dowels or long bolts will ease in pinion housing/cage and shim installation and alignment.





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.

6. Install the pinion housing/cage bolts.

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).




7. Install the J 42155 into the groove of the output shaft, in order to install the differential case assembly.



8. Install the C-clip into the groove of the output shaft.



9. Apply sealant GM P/N 1052942 (Canadian P/N 10953466) or equivalent to the threads of the bolts (2) and stud. Apply sealant only to the end of the stud that installs into the mount.
10. Install the mount (1) and bolts (2).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

11. Install 2 M10 x 1.5 nuts onto the transmission stud (1). Install the stud into the mount.

Tighten
Tighten the stud to 42 N·m (31 lb ft).




12. Install the O-ring (3) to the right cover (2).
13. Install the right cover and bolts (1).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).




14. Install the J 8001 onto the transmission stud. Position the tip of the dial indicator against the center of the ring gear tooth surface.



15. Install the J 42164 into the splines of the pinion. J 42164 retains the pinion in order to properly measure backlash.



16. Move the right output shaft in both directions in order to measure the gear backlash. Measure the backlash in two to three locations at the ring gear teeth while holding the pinion shaft. Refer to Rear Axle Specifications .




Important: 

•	Note the location of the rear cover bolt/stud for assembly.

•	Some rear axle carriers with a revised design do not have a machined O-ring groove. These applications require a gasket. This may also be noted after carrier replacement.

17. Install the rear cover (2), bolts (3), O-ring (1), pump - some models (4) or gasket - some models (5).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts and bolt/stud to 10 N·m (89 lb in).




18. Remove the bolts (3) and the differential assembly (1) from the J 42173  (2).



19. Install the O-ring (4) to the left cover (3).
20. Install the magnet (5) to the carrier.
21. Install the left cover  (3) and bolts (2).

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).




22. Install the vehicle speed sensor and bolt.

Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 10 N·m (89 lb in).




23. Install the drain plug (1) and washer (2).

Tighten
Tighten the drain plug to 35 N·m (26 lb ft).




24. For models equipped with a cooler, perform the following:

24.1.

Install cooler (1) with cooler mounting bolts (2).

Tighten
Tighten the cooler mounting bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

24.2.

Install the outlet pipe (4) to cooler and pump.

24.3.

Install the inlet pipe (3) to the pump.




25. For models equipped with a pump and cooler, perform the following:

25.1.

Install a new drain quick connect fitting clip (3).

25.2.

Install the inlet pipe (2) to the drain.

26. For quick connect fitting, install the inlet pipe clamp retaining bolt (1).

Tighten
Tighten the pipe clamp retaining bolt to 10 N·m (89 lb in).




27. Clean any dirt from around the differential fill plug.
28. Fill the differential with fluid:

•	Fill with synthetic axle lubricant GM P/N 12378261 (Canadian P/N 10953455).

•	Add approximately 118 ml (4.0 oz) limited-slip differential lubricant additive GM P/N 1052358 (Canadian P/N 992694).

29. Check the fluid level to ensure it is even with the bottom of the fill plug hole to no lower than 6 mm (0.25 in) below the opening.
30. Install the fill plug and washer to the differential.

Tighten
Tighten the differential fill plug to 35 N·m (26 lb ft).

31. Lower the vehicle.