Special Tools

Note: Observe and mark the positions of all the driveline components, relative to the propeller shaft and the axles, prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion flanges, output shafts, etc. Reassemble all the components in the exact places in which you removed the parts. Follow any specifications, torque values, and any measurements made prior to disassembly.

1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Disconnect the propeller shaft from the rear axle pinion yoke. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement.



3. Place an alignment mark between the pinion and the pinion yoke.



4. Install the J 8614-01 as shown.
5. Remove the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01 .



6. Remove the washer.



7. Install the J 8614-2 (2) and the J 8614-3 (3) into the J 8614-01 (1) as shown.
8. Remove the pinion yoke by turning the J 8614-3 (3) clockwise while holding the J 8614-01 (1).

Use a container in order to retrieve the lubricant.

9. Remove the pinion oil seal. Use a suitable seal removal tool. Do not damage the axle housing.

1. Apply a light coat of axle lubricant, GM P/N 12378557 or equivalent meeting GM Specification 9986207, to the lip of the pinion seal.



2. Install the new seal using the J 45710 .



3. Install the pinion yoke.
4. Seat the pinion yoke onto the pinion shaft by tapping it with a soft-faced hammer until a few pinion shaft threads show through the yoke.



5. Install the washer.



6. Install the new pinion nut.



7. Install the J 8614-01 onto the pinion yoke as shown.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

8. Tighten the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01 .

Tighten
Tighten the pinion nut to 370 N·m (273 lb ft).

9. Install the propeller shaft to the rear axle pinion yoke. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement.
10. Inspect and add axle lubricant to the axle housing, if necessary. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection.
11. Lower the vehicle.