GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 8614-01 Companion Flange Holder


    Object Number: 1498  Size: SH
  1. Remove the bolt and retainers.
  2. Important: Prior to disassembly, observe and mark the positions of all the driveline components, relative to the propeller shaft and the axles, including the following components:

       • The propeller shafts
       • The drive axles
       • The pinion flanges
       • The output shafts
    Reassemble all the components in the exact places in which you removed the parts. Follow any specifications, torque values, and any measurements obtained prior to disassembly.

  3. Mark the installed position of the propeller shaft and the pinion flange. Reassemble the propeller shaft and the pinion flange in the same position.
  4. Remove the propeller shaft from the pinion flange.
  5. 3.1. Use a piece of tape in order to hold the bearing caps.
    3.2. Secure the propeller shaft up and out of the way in order to not put any stress on the universal joints.
    3.3. Make an alignment mark on the pinion stem, pinion flange, and the pinion flange nut. Record the number of exposed threads on the pinion stem for reference.

    Object Number: 1497  Size: SH
  6. Measure the amount of torque required to turn the pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench. Record this measurement for reassembly. This will give combined pinion bearing, seal, carrier bearing, axle bearing, and seal preload.

  7. Object Number: 9727  Size: SH
  8. Remove the pinion flange nut and the washer.

  9. Object Number: 1495  Size: SH
  10. Use the J 8614-01 in order to hold the pinion flange.
  11. Remove the pinion flange. Place a container under the flange in order to retrieve the lubricant.
  12. Remove the oil seal. Use a seal removal tool. Do not damage the carrier.
  13. Inspect the seal surface of the pinion flange for tool marks, nicks, or damage, such as a groove worn by the seal. Replace the flange, if necessary. Refer to Drive Pinion Yoke Replacement .
  14. Inspect the carrier bore for burrs that may cause leaks around the outside of the seal.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 8614-01 Companion Flange Holder
    • J 23911 Pinion Oil Seal Installer

    Object Number: 9723  Size: SH
  1. Install a new seal using the J 23911 .
  2. Apply seal lubricant to the outside of the pinion flange and the sealing lip of the new seal.
  3. Important: Do not hammer the pinion flange onto the pinion stem.


    Object Number: 9727  Size: SH
  4. Install the pinion flange.
  5. 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.

  6. Install the washer and nut.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the nut on the pinion stem as close to the original marks as possible without going past the mark. Use the reference mark and the thread count as a reference. Tighten the nut in increments. Turn the pinion flange several times after each tightening in order to set the rollers.

    Important: If the original preload torque was less than 3 lb in, reset the torque specification to 3-5 lb in.


    Object Number: 1497  Size: SH
  8. Measure the torque required in order to rotate the pinion. Compare this with the torque recorded earlier. Continue to tighten and measure a little at a time until the same preload is achieved.
  9. Align the propeller shaft with the alignment marks made previously. Use the J 8614-01 in order to hold the pinion flange.
  10. Install the propeller shaft to the pinion flange.

  11. Object Number: 1498  Size: SH
  12. Install the bolts and retainers.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 45 N·m (33 lb ft).