Removal & Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Aztek and 2003 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Required Tools: Output Shaft Seal Installer (J-44809).

NOTE: Inspect the sealing surface of the axle shaft inner tri-pot housing to ensure it is free of corrosion. Use a crocus cloth in order to remove any light corrosion and clean the sealing surface with denatured alcohol, or equivalent.

Raise and support the vehicle. Remove the left rear or right rear tire and wheel assembly. Remove the left axle shaft or right axle shaft. See appropriate AXLE SHAFT - REAR article under DRIVELINE/AXLES. Remove the differential output shaft oil seal. See Figure . Do not damage the differential sealing surfaces. Using the Output Shaft Seal Installer, install the left or right axle shaft oil seal. Lubricate the axle shaft sealing surfaces of the oil seal with synthetic gear oil GM P/N 12378514 Canadian P/N 88901045 or equivalent. Install the right or left axle shaft. See appropriate AXLE SHAFT - REAR article under DRIVELINE/AXLES. Install the right or left rear tire and wheel assembly. Tighten bolts to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Inspect the differential lubricant level. See LUBRICATION . Lower the vehicle.