Tools Required

J 8614-01 Pinion Yoke Holder

Important: Note the positions and accurately reference mark all driveline components relative to the disassembly of the propeller shaft and axles. These components include the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion yokes and output shafts. The published specifications and torque values, as well as any measurements made prior to disassembly must also be followed. All components must be reassembled in the exact relationship to each other as when removed.

1. In order to free the steering linkage for movement, unlock the steering column.
2. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with safety stands. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
3. Remove the front wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
4. Remove the front rotors. Refer to Front Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.



5. Remove the differential carrier shield, if equipped.
6. Remove the differential carrier shield bracket.
7. Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.



8. Measure the amount of torque required to rotate the pinion. Use an inch-pound torque wrench. Record this measurement for reassembly. This will provide the combined preload for the following components:

•	The pinion bearings

•	The pinion seal

•	The carrier bearings

•	The axle bearings

•	The axle seals

•	The wheel drive shafts

•	The wheel bearings

9. Draw two arrows pointing at each other. One on the pinion stem and the other on the pinion yoke.
10. Record the number of exposed threads on the pinion stem for reference.



11. Remove the pinion yoke nut and washer, using J 8614-01 in order to secure the yoke.



12. Remove the pinion yoke using J 8614-01 . Provide a suitable container to catch the lubricant.

Tools Required

J 8614-01 Pinion Yoke Holder

1. Apply sealant to the inside sealing surface of the pinion yoke.
2. Apply seal lubricant to the outside sealing surface of the pinion yoke and the sealing lip of the seal.

Notice: Do not hammer the pinion flange/yoke onto the pinion shaft. Pinion components may be damaged if the pinion flange/yoke is hammered onto the pinion shaft.

Important: Install the pinion yoke in the same position as marked during removal to maintain driveline balance.

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




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: Reference the number of exposed threads on the pinion shaft recorded during removal.

4. Install the washer and a new nut using J 8614-01 .

Tighten
Tighten the nut until the pinion end play is just taken up. Rotate the pinion while tightening the nut to seat the bearings.





Important: If the rotating torque is exceeded, the pinion will have to be removed and a new collapsible spacer installed.

5. Measure the torque required to rotate the pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench. Compare this value with the torque recorded during removal.

Tighten
Tighten the pinion shaft nut in small increments, as needed, until the rotating torque is 0.40-0.57N·m (3-5 lb in) greater than the rotating torque recorded during removal.

6. Once the specified torque is obtained, rotate the pinion several times to ensure the bearings have seated. Recheck the rotating torque and adjust if necessary.
7. Install the propeller shaft. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft. Align the marks made during removal. Components must be reassembled in the same position.
8. Inspect the axle lubricant level. Add lubricant as necessary. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.



9. Install the differential carrier shield bracket, if equipped.

Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 103 N·m (76 lb ft).

10. Install the differential carrier shield.

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

11. Install the front rotors. Refer to Front Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
12. Install the front wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
13. Lower the vehicle.