Bearings and Shafts Cleaning and Inspection Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Pontiac Montana SV6 and 2006 Chevrolet Uplander. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: View Of Flange Sealing Surface

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the flange sealing surface (1) for wear, damaged bolt threads (2) and worn or damaged splines (3).

Fig 2: View Of Drive And Drivenshafts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the drive and drivenshafts for the following:
- Worn gear teeth (1)
- Worn or scored driveshaft sealing surface (2)
- Worn or damaged splines (3)
- Damaged threads (4)
- Pitted, scored or damaged bearings (5)

Fig 3: Locating Differential Carrier Gears & Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the differential carrier gear needle bearings (4 and 6) for wear. Inspect for a worn or scored pin (9).

Fig 4: Inspecting Bearing Rollers & Races For Pitting, Grooves, Spalling & Excessive Wear

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the bearing rollers and races for the following:
- Pitting
- Scoring or grooves
- Excessive wear or other damage

Fig 5: Inspecting Bearing Rollers & Races For Heat Discoloration

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the bearing rollers and races for heat discoloration. Heat discoloration ranges from a faint yellow to a dark blue color. This discoloration may result from an overload or improper lubrication. Excessive heat causes softening of the rollers and races. Bearings or races with a sign of heat discoloration must be replaced.

Fig 6: Identifying Bent Roller Cage

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect for a bent bearing cage.