GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 2002 🢒 Sonoma Pickup - 4WD 🢒 General Information 🢒 General Information 🢒 Axle Lubricant Change

Removal Procedure
  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

    2. Object Number: 392774 Size: SH
  2. Remove the rear axle fill plug.

    3. Object Number: 1500 Size: SH
  3. For the 7.6 inch axle and the 8.6 inch axle without a drain plug, remove the rear axle housing cover and the rear axle housing cover gasket.

    4. Object Number: 390113 Size: SH
  4. For the 8.6 inch axle with a drain plug, remove the rear axle drain plug.
  5. Drain the lubricant into a suitable container.
  6. Inspect the drain plug for excessive metal particle accumulation. This accumulation is symptomatic of extreme wear.
  7. Clean the drain plug.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 1500 Size: SH
  1. For the 7.6 inch axle and the 8.6 inch axle without a drain plug, install the new rear axle housing cover gasket and the rear axle housing cover.

    2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  2. Install the rear axle housing cover bolts.

    3. Tighten
    Tighten the rear axle housing cover bolts in a crosswise pattern to 30 N·m (20 lb ft).


    Object Number: 390113 Size: SH
  3. For the 8.6 inch axle with a drain plug, install the rear axle drain plug.

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the rear axle drain plug to 39 N·m (29 lb ft).

  4. Fill the rear axle. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.

    5. Object Number: 392774 Size: SH
  5. Install the rear axle fill plug.

    6. Tighten
    Tighten the rear axle fill plug to 33 N·m (24 lb ft).

  6. Lower the vehicle.