GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 22888-D Side Bearing Remover Kit
    • J 22912-B Split Plate Bearing Puller
    • J 24430 Differential Side Bearing Installer
    • J 45900 Differential Side Bearing Installer - Dana Axles
    • J 8092 Universal Driver Handle - ¾ in - 10
    • J 8433 Two Jaw Puller

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Remove the axle shafts. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement .
  3. Remove rear axle housing cover. Refer to Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement .
  4. Remove the differential case assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement .
  5. Install the J 22912-B , the J 8107-5, and the J 8433 over the differential differential side bearing.
  6. Remove the differential side bearing by tightening the forcing screw of the J 8433 .
  7. Important: Mark the inboard shims left or right.

  8. Remove the inboard shims.

Installation Procedure

    Important: The inboard spacer must be the same size as the spacer that was removed.

  1. Install one new hardened 0.689-0.838 mm (0.027-0.033 in) inboard spacer onto the side of the differential case assembly.
  2. Measure the spacer thickness using a micrometer to verify the spacer size.


    Object Number: 651740  Size: SH
  3. Install the differential side bearing by doing the following:
  4. 2.1. In order to protect the differential case, install the J 8107-5 in the case on the side opposite of the bearing installation.
    2.2. Install the differential side bearing.
    2.3. Install the J 24430 or the J 45900  (2) and the J 8092  (1) over the differential side bearing.
    2.4. Drive the differential side bearing into position using the J 24430 or the J 45900 and the J 8092 .
  5. Determine the differential side bearing shim pack size and side bearing preload for the differential assembly. Refer to Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment .
  6. Install the axle shafts. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement .
  7. Install the rear axle housing cover. Refer to Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement .
  8. Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
  9. Lower the vehicle.