Removal Procedure
- Raise the vehicle. Refer to
Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
.
- Remove the fill plug.
- Remove the rear axle housing cover bolts.
- Remove the rear axle housing cover.
Drain the lubricant into a suitable container.
- Remove the sealant from the rear axle housing and the rear axle housing cover.
Installation Procedure
- Apply an approximately 3.18-6.35 mm (1/8-1/4 in) high and 3.18-6.35 mm (1/8-1/4 in)
wide bead of sealant GM P/N 12346240 (Canadian P/N 10953493) or equivalent to the rear axle housing cover.
The sealant is to be applied in the middle of the rear axle housing cover flange and on the inside of all
bolt hole openings as shown.
- Install the rear axle housing cover.
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.
- Install the rear axle housing cover bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the rear axle housing cover bolts to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).
Important: Allow the sealant to cure for 1 hour before filling the axle with axle lubricant.
- Fill the rear axle with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to
Approximate Fluid Capacities
and
Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations
.
- Install rear axle fill plug.
Tighten
Tighten the rear axle fill plug to 33 N·m (24 lb ft).
- Lower the vehicle.