Installation Procedure

Important: The mating surface of the ring gear and the differential case must be clean and free of burrs before installing the ring gear.

Install the ring gear to the differential case.
Install two threaded studs into the ring gear on opposite sides.
Place the ring gear on the case. Align the studs with the holes in the case.
NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.
Install the new ring gear bolts. Tighten the ring gear bolts alternately and in stages, gradually pulling the ring gear onto the differential case.

Fig 1: Installing Ring Gear To Differential Case
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Tighten
- For the 7.6 inch axle, tighten the ring gear bolts in sequence to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
- For the 8.6 inch axle, tighten the ring gear bolts in sequence to 120 N.m (89 lb ft).
Install the pinion bearing cups. Refer to Drive Pinion Bearings Replacement .
Determine the selective shim thickness for the pinion gear. Refer to Pinion Depth Adjustment .
Install the selective shim onto the pinion.
Install the inner pinion bearing to the pinion. Refer to Drive Pinion Bearings Replacement .
Install a new collapsible spacer.
Lubricate the pinion bearings with axle lubricant.
Install the pinion to the axle housing.
Install the outer pinion bearing.
Install a new pinion oil seal and the pinion yoke. Refer to Drive Pinion Flange/Yoke and/or Oil Seal Replacement .
Install the differential. Refer to Differential Replacement .
Perform a gear tooth contact pattern check on the pinion and the ring gear. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection .
Install the axle shafts. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft Replacement .
Install the brake drums (if equipped).
Install the brake rotors (if equipped). Refer to BRAKE ROTOR -- REAR in Disc Brakes.
Install the brake calipers. Refer to BRAKE CALIPER -- REAR in Disc Brakes.
Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid.
Lower the vehicle.