Tools Required

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Place a drain pan or suitable container under the transaxle fluid pan.
3. Remove the transaxle drain plug (1) from the transaxle fluid pan (3) and drain the fluid into the drain pan or suitable container.
4. Install J 28712 to the wheel-side and differential-side joints of the drive axle.
5. Remove the drive axle assembly from the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.
6. Remove the drive axle shaft fluid seal from the transaxle.
7. Inspect the differential-side joint surface of the drive axle assembly where the drive axle makes contact with the drive axle shaft fluid seal.

The surface should be smooth and free of any burrs or scarring which may damage the drive axle shaft fluid seal.

If damage to the differential-side joint is evident, replace the differential-side joint.

1. Install the new drive axle shaft fluid seal into the transaxle using the J 35538 .
2. Install the drive axle assembly into the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.
3. Remove the J 28712 from the wheel-side and differential-side joints of the drive axle.
4. Apply GM P/N 12346004, or the equivalent, to the threaded portion of the transaxle drain plug.

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.

5. Install the transaxle drain plug into the transaxle fluid pan.

Tighten
Tighten the transaxle drain plug to 23 N·m (17 lb ft).

6. Lower the vehicle.
7. Refill the transaxle, as necessary. Refer to Transmission Fluid Check .