Removal Procedure
- Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
- Drain the rear axle. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
- Remove the rear axle housing cover bolts (1).
- Remove the rear axle housing cover (2) from the axle housing.
Discard the rear axle housing cover bolts.
| 4.1. | Catch the oil in a drain pan. |
| 4.2. | Remove any gasket material from the rear axle housing and/or the rear axle housing cover. |
Installation Procedure
- Install the rear axle housing cover (2) and a new gasket.
- Install the new rear axle housing cover bolts (1).
- Fill the rear axle. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
- Lower the vehicle.
Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
Important: Do not reuse the rear axle housing cover bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the rear axle housing cover bolts in a crosswise pattern to
40 N·m (30 lb ft).
