Gears Cleaning and Inspection

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

Fig 1: Inspecting Idler Gear For Wear, Pitting, Or Discoloration By Heat

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the idler gear (2) for wear, pitting, or discoloration by heat.
Inspect the drive and driveshafts for worn or damaged gears (1).

Fig 2: Inspecting Drive And Driveshafts For Worn Or Damaged Gears
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Inspect the differential carrier and ring gear for the following:

Fig 3: Inspecting Differential Carrier And Ring Gear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Worn gears (1)
- Damaged threads (2)
- Scored, pitted, or damaged bearing (3)
- Worn gear set or loose center pin (4)
- Worn or loose gears (5)
Inspect the gears (3) for abnormal wear.