GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

    • J 8092 Universal Driver Handle - ¾ in - 10
    • J 29710 Differential Side Bearing Installer
    • J 36597 Side Bearing Puller Pilot - 9.25 in Axle

    Object Number: 851734  Size: SH
  1. Install the thrust washers and the differential side gears into the differential case.
  2. If the same differential side gears and the thrust washers are being used, install the gears and the washers to the original locations.


    Object Number: 851732  Size: SH
  3. Install the differential pinion gears by performing the following steps:
  4. 2.1. Position both pinion gears between the differential side gears directly opposite of each other.
    2.2. Rotate the differential side gears until the pinion gears are opposite the opening in the differential case in line with the pinion shaft opening.
  5. Install the thrust washers in between the pinion gear and differential case using a hammer and brass drift.
  6. Install the differential side gear spacers. (2nd design does not use spacers.)

  7. Object Number: 851733  Size: SH
  8. Install the pinion gear shaft.
  9. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 851727  Size: SH
  10. Install the pinion shaft lock bolt.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the pinion shaft lock bolt to 53 N·m (39 lb ft).


    Object Number: 866505  Size: SH

    Important: The mating surface of the ring gear and the differential case must be clean and free of burrs before installing the ring gear.

  12. Install the ring gear onto the differential case.

  13. Object Number: 866503  Size: SH

    Important: The ring gear bolts have left-hand threads.

  14. Install the new ring gear bolts.
  15. Hand start each bolt to ensure that the ring gear is properly installed to the differential case.

  16. Tighten the new ring gear bolts. Tighten the ring gear bolts alternately and in stages, gradually pulling the ring gear onto the differential case.
  17. Tighten
    Tighten the ring gear bolts in sequence to 138 N·m (102 lb ft).


    Object Number: 680453  Size: SH
  18. Install the differential side bearings by performing the following steps:
  19. 10.1. In order to protect the differential case, install the J 36597 in the case on the side opposite the bearing installation.
    10.2. Install the J 29710  (2) and the J 8092  (1) onto the differential case bearing as shown.
    10.3. Drive the differential case bearing onto the case using the J 29710 and the J 8092 .