REAR AXLE SEAL LEAKS/NOISY REAR WHEEL BEARING (DIAGNOSIS)

SUBJECT: REAR AXLE SEAL LEAKS AND/OR NOISY REAR WHEEL BEARINGS (ADJUST NUT OR MISSING RETAINING RING)

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1990-91 P3

A limited number of reports have been received regarding rear axle seal leaks and/or noisy rear wheel bearings on the subject vehicles.

Involved vehicles are equipped with a 454-V8 engine (RPO L19), automatic transmission (RPO MX1/MXO), heavy-duty chassis (RPO F44), Dana 80 series rear axle with rear disc brakes and 16,000# GVWR.

In diagnosing rear axle oil leaks and/or noisy wheel bearings, certain vehicles may be found to have a misadjusted adjusting nut and/or missing retaining ring in the rear disc hub assembly. Both axle ends should be examined for these conditions if a problem is found on either side.

Repair service procedures are contained in the 1990 R/V, G,P service manual. Refer to instructions beginning on page 4B1-16. Figure 24 identifies and illustrates the adjusting nut and retaining ring referenced above.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.