GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 22912-B Split-Plate Bearing Puller
    • J 42176 Universal Driver Handle - Non-Threaded
    • J 45240 Pinion Bearing Race Installer - Dana 286
    • J 45706 Pinion Bearing Race Remover - Dana 286
    • J 45707 Pinion Bearing Race Remover - Dana 286
    • J 8092 Universal Driver Handle - ¾ in - 10
    • J 8608 Rear Pinion Bearing Race Installer

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 the differential case assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement .
  4. Remove the pinion yoke and the pinion oil seal. Refer to Drive Pinion Flange/Yoke and/or Oil Seal Replacement .
  5. Remove the pinion thrust washer and the outer pinion bearing.
  6. Remove the drive pinion from the axle using a soft-faced hammer.
  7. Remove the pinion preload shims from the drive pinion and set aside.
  8. Remove the outer pinion bearing cup using the J 45707 and the J 42176 .
  9. Important: The oil baffle must be replaced anytime the inner pinion bearing cup is removed.

  10. Remove the inner pinion bearing cup and the oil baffle using the J 45706 and the J 42176 .

  11. Object Number: 680110  Size: SH
  12. Remove the inner pinion bearing using the J 22912-B .
  13. Remove the pinion position shim.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 815458  Size: SH

    Important: A new pinion oil baffle must be installed anytime the inner pinion bearing cup is removed.

  1. Install the pinion oil baffle into the inner pinion bearing cup bore.

  2. Object Number: 815642  Size: SH
  3. Install the inner pinion bearing cup using the J 45240  (2) and the J 8092  (1).
  4. Install the outer pinion bearing cup using the J 8608 and the J 8092 .
  5. Determine the pinion position shim thickness and the pinion preload shim thickness for the drive pinion. Refer to Pinion Depth Adjustment .
  6. Install the differential case assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement .
  7. Install the axle shafts. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement .
  8. Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
  9. Lower the vehicle.